U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA)

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) FY 2026 J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative

(JCSVEI) Program Funding Opportunity Number: DFOP0017856

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

A. Basic Information B. Eligibility C. Program Description D. Application Contents and Format E. Submission Requirements and Deadlines F. Application Review Information G. Award Notices H. Post-Award Requirements and Administration I. Other Information

A. Basic Information

1. Overview.

Funding Opportunity Title FY 2026 J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange

Initiative (JCSVEI) Program Funding Opportunity Number

DFOP0017856

Announcement Type New Cooperative Agreement Deadline for Applications May 1, 2026, 11:59pm Eastern (Washington DC time) Assistance Listing Number 19.415

Length of Performance Period

24 months

Number of Awards Anticipated

One award.

Award Amount Approximately $4,000,000

Total Available Funding $4,000,000, pending availability of funds

Type of Funding FY26 Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs (ECE) Funds

Funding Instrument Type Cooperative Agreement

Anticipated Award Date September 15, 2026

This notice is subject to availability of funding. Issuance of the NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the Government.

ECA reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal budgets in accordance with the needs of the program and the availability of funds.

2. Executive Summary.

The Global Leaders Division, Office of Citizen Exchanges, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposal submissions for a cooperative agreement to design, administer, and implement the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative (JCSVEI). The JCSVEI advances U.S. foreign policy priorities by championing American scientific excellence, technological leadership, and innovation, while promoting core U.S. principles—freedom of speech, individual liberty, and the rule of law—as foundations of peace and prosperity. The program achieves these goals through American-led virtual exchanges that connects young leaders in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) with peers across the United States.

Through interactive digital programming, participants will explore U.S. global leadership in science, technology, business, and civic life, while demonstrating how American freedom of speech, rule of law, and individual liberty underpin prosperity and opportunity. They will collaborate virtually with peers overseas to develop digital storytelling projects, podcasts, vlogs, and other media that illustrate the strength of American communities and the nation’s commitment to open exchange, innovation, and collaboration. The initiative will also challenge participants to apply American ingenuity to practical solutions that promote economic opportunity, job creation, and digital connectivity—contributing to shared prosperity and regional stability. By reinforcing the spirit of the Abraham Accords and advancing U.S. engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council, the program will strengthen ties between the United States and key partners in the Middle East while advancing America’s vision of a secure, prosperous, and interconnected region.

The JCSVEI will use a range of virtual exchange formats—live dialogues, collaborative digital projects, online trainings, and virtual workshops—to reach approximately 8,000 participants annually. Programming should promote mutual collaboration grounded in U.S. leadership, encouraging youth to view the United States as a trusted partner in science, entrepreneurship, and global problem-solving.

An Alumni Leadership Academy will provide continued engagement for participants who demonstrate strong leadership potential, equipping them to serve as ambassadors of U.S. values and connectors between American and Middle Eastern communities. Follow-on activities should reinforce long-term networks that advance America’s economic, security, and diplomatic priorities.

Organizations applying for this award must demonstrate the capacity to recruit, select, and manage up to six partner organizations as sub-award recipients to implement virtual exchange components under the JCSVEI umbrella. The primary award recipient will maintain full oversight of sub-awards, ensuring compliance, accountability, and alignment with ECA’s goals, performance measures, and branding standards.

ECA will consider only one proposal per applicant organization. If multiple proposals are submitted through grants.gov, only the most recent submission prior to the deadline will be reviewed.

By connecting rising leaders through cutting-edge virtual platforms, the J.

Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative will project American excellence, expand U.S. influence, and strengthen networks that promote stability, opportunity, and peace—furthering the United States’ enduring leadership and engagement across the Middle East.

B. Eligibility

1. Eligible Applicants.

The following organizations are eligible to apply:

• U.S. Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations

• U.S. Not-for-profit public and private educational institutions

Please see the Proposal Submission Instructions (PSI) for additional information.

2. Cost Sharing.

There is no minimum or maximum percentage of cost sharing required for this program.

3. Other Eligibility Requirements.

a. All organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov as well as a valid registration in SAM.gov. Please see Section E. Submission Requirements and Deadlines for more information.

b. Grants or Cooperative Agreements awarded to organizations which do not demonstrate at least four years of experience in conducting international exchange programs will be limited to $130,000.

c. All proposals must comply with the requirements stated in the NOFO, and the PSI; not doing so may result in your proposal being declared technically ineligible and given no further consideration in the review process.

d. All proposals must contain a SF-424, executive summary, proposal narrative, budget (SF-424A), detailed line-item budget, and budget narrative.

e. Only one proposal will be considered by ECA from each applicant organization. In cases where more than one submission from an applicant appears in grants.gov, ECA will only consider the submission made closest in time to the NOFO deadline; that submission would constitute the one and only proposal ECA would review from that applicant.

Please note: Applicant organizations are defined by their legal name, and EIN number as stated on their completed SF-424 and additional supporting documentation outlined in the PSI document.

f. Applicants who are current recipients of awards directly from ECA should make sure the application discusses one or more award that will be open with ECA at the start of the anticipated period of performance for this NOFO.

Applicants who do not have current awards directly with ECA, please review the information in the PSI, section D, with additional information that must be provided in your application for it to be eligible.

C. Program Description

1. Authority.

Overall grant making authority for this program is contained in the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, Public Law 87-256, as amended, also known as the Fulbright-Hays Act. The purpose of the Act is "to enable the Government of the United States to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries...; to strengthen the ties which unite us with other nations by demonstrating the educational and cultural interests, developments, and achievements of the people of the United States and other nations...and thus to assist in the development of friendly, sympathetic and peaceful relations between the United States and the other countries of the world."

The funding authority for the program above is provided through legislation.

2. Purpose.

Established in 2015, the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative (JCSVEI) honors the legacy of Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, whose career reflected the best of American diplomacy—curiosity, optimism, and a belief in the power of open dialogue. His example embodies America’s founding values of liberty, opportunity, and engagement with the world.

The JCSVEI advances U.S. foreign policy priorities by championing American scientific excellence, technological leadership, and innovation, while promoting core U.S.

principles—freedom of speech, individual liberty, and the rule of law—as foundations of peace and prosperity. The program achieves these goals through American-led virtual exchanges that connects young leaders in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) with peers across the United States.

Through immersive digital platforms, participants will explore America’s leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and apply these skills to address shared global challenges. The program will integrate cutting-edge virtual exchange tools, including virtual reality (VR) environments, hackathons, and collaborative online innovation labs that simulate real-world problem-solving.

Participants will engage in projects that showcase U.S. expertise in entrepreneurship, research, and technology-driven development, reinforcing the United States as the global standard for excellence and ingenuity.

Program themes will include Science and Technology Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Economic Prosperity, Digital Media and Storytelling, and Civic Engagement grounded in American founding principles such as freedom of speech and the rule of law. These focus areas will connect American youth ages 18–25—particularly those from rural communities—with peers in the Middle East through virtual exchanges that showcase U.S. excellence in innovation, leadership, and enterprise.

A signature feature of the initiative, the JCSVEI Alumni Leadership Academy, will provide advanced learning opportunities and mentorship for high-performing alumni. Through multi-month programming and in-person engagement, participants will gain deeper exposure to American approaches to scientific innovation, digital entrepreneurship, and civic leadership—equipping them to serve as catalysts for peace, stability, and opportunity in their own communities.

The JCSVEI directly supports key U.S. strategic objectives in the MENA region by:

1. Promoting enduring partnerships between the United States and regional stakeholders that advance peace, prosperity, and security.

2. Showcasing American excellence in science and technology, demonstrating how innovation and enterprise drive growth and strengthen free societies.

3. Championing open exchange and freedom of speech through modern digital platforms that connect future leaders in shared learning and innovation.

4. Developing leadership, STEM, and professional capacity among participants to reinforce economic opportunity and regional stability.

5. By linking rising leaders with America’s scientific innovation, digital technologies, and founding values, the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative strengthens U.S. leadership, expands American influence, and promotes peace through knowledge, collaboration, and technological excellence across the Middle East and North Africa.

3. Program Specific Guidelines.

Applicants should integrate the program’s strategic goals throughout all aspects of program design and implementation. Proposals must demonstrate a clear understanding of U.S. foreign policy priorities, including the promotion of American innovation, STEM and scientific excellence, free enterprise, and democratic values.

Applicants should highlight relevant regional and thematic expertise, as well as their capacity—and that of any subrecipients—to conduct high-quality virtual exchange programming that connects American youth with peers in the Middle East and North Africa.

Program design should emphasize the application of digital technologies, including virtual reality, collaborative platforms, and online hackathons, to foster engagement, creativity, and problem-solving. Applicants should address strategies for effectively implementing these virtual exchanges in locations with limited internet access while continuing to advance U.S. strategic interests, promote American values of freedom, opportunity, and the rule of law, and deliver lasting benefits for both U.S. citizens and international participants.

The recipient will oversee and support all virtual, domestic, and international program activities and will serve as the primary liaison with U.S. embassies engaged in program implementation. The award recipient must work closely with participating U.S. embassies to obtain approval of local partners, recruitment strategies, and in-country activities, and to coordinate the selection of alumni for the Alumni Leadership Academy. All activities should consistently reflect U.S. leadership, innovation, and commitment to strengthening peace and prosperity through American excellence and engagement.

3a Participating Countries Activities must be conducted in the United States and in one or more of the following countries: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, the Palestinian Territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

3b Participants Participants in the JCSVEI should be at least 18 years of age, from the United States, and from one of the following countries: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, the Palestinian Territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

3c Program Themes Applicants should propose a portfolio of virtual exchange programming that addresses at least three of the following themes:

• STEM and American Excellence in Science and Technology – Highlight U.S.

leadership in innovation, research, and applied technology as drivers of progress and prosperity.

• America First Principles – Promote understanding of freedom of speech, rule of law, civic responsibility, and individual liberty as the foundation of democratic societies.

• Digital Media and Freedom of Expression – Encourage responsible communication, storytelling, and digital collaboration that reflect America’s commitment to openness and truth in the digital age.

• Entrepreneurship, Employment, and Career Preparedness – Showcase American approaches to workforce development, business creation, and skills that power the modern economy.

• American Excellence and Global Leadership – Demonstrate how U.S.

innovation, enterprise, and civic engagement advance peace, stability, and shared prosperity around the world.

3d. Overview of Key Program Components All proposals should include detailed information addressing the following key components of the JCSVEI:

Partner Organization Selection Applicants may identify and select up to six partner organizations as subaward recipients to implement virtual exchange programs under the JCSVEI.

Proposals must describe the selection process, criteria, and rationale for selecting each partner organization. Submit potential sub-award recipients prior to award issuance and provide a letter of intent from each.

Selected partner organizations should implement exchanges that highlight American excellence in science and technology, entrepreneurship, civic leadership, and the rule of law. Proposals should include letters of commitment or intent from all proposed subaward partners and describe how each organization’s programming advances U.S. leadership and strengthens collaboration between the United States and the Middle East.

Partner Organization Management and Oversight The award recipient will maintain full responsibility for the management and oversight of all partner organizations and subawards under the JCSVEI. Proposals should demonstrate proven capacity to administer multiple subawards and present a detailed management and accountability plan. Applicants should clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each partner, outlining expectations for program quality, fiscal compliance, and impact reporting consistent with ECA and U.S.

government standards.

Alumni Leadership Academy The recipient will design and implement a robust Alumni Leadership Academy that advances program themes such as American innovation and STEM excellence, digital media and freedom of speech, economic and career preparedness, and civic engagement rooted in America First principles.

The Academy should be a multi-month hybrid experience that includes one to two in-person components and serves approximately 40 alumni annually from the United States, the Middle East, and North Africa. Each cohort should provide participants with advanced learning, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities that reinforce U.S. values of liberty, entrepreneurship, and collaboration.

Proposals should define clear learning outcomes and engagement goals and include a grants component enabling alumni to apply their skills through community-based projects following completion of the program. The recipient may propose one or two Academy cohorts per year.

Program Promotion and Outreach The recipient will develop and manage all program communication and outreach platforms, including a website, informational materials, and official social media accounts. All materials should amplify U.S. leadership, innovation, and values while maintaining compliance with ECA branding and public diplomacy guidelines.

Coordination with ECA and U.S. embassies abroad is required for the review and dissemination of all content.

Alumni Engagement Applicants must include a plan to build and sustain an active alumni network beyond the Alumni Leadership Academy. This network should reinforce U.S.

strategic and public diplomacy objectives, foster continued collaboration, and highlight American impact.

Proposals should integrate ECA-wide alumni initiatives, including the International Exchange Alumni platform (exchangealumni.gov), and connect participants to U.S.

Department of State alumni opportunities such as small grants and professional development seminars. All alumni activities must strengthen participants’ ongoing connection to the United States and adhere to ECA guidance for attribution and branding.

3e. Projected Timeline The cooperative agreement is expected to begin on or about September 15, 2026, for a total duration of approximately 24 months. Applicants should include a proposed implementation timeline outlining major program milestones. Specific exchange and activity dates will be finalized following ECA approval.

4. Recipient Responsibilities.

The responsibilities of the recipient organization are as follows:

a) The recipient organization will serve as the lead implementer of the JCSVEI, ensuring that all activities advance the program’s U.S.-based impact, strengthen people-to-people ties, and promote mutual understanding between the United States and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

b) Foster meaningful connections and collaboration between participants and institutions in the United States and MENA.

c) Identify and thoroughly vet U.S. and MENA-based partner organizations to design and deliver innovative virtual exchange programs that reflect the distinctiveness within the region, in theme, and in participant backgrounds.

d) Ensure all subaward partners uphold U.S. values of fairness, respect, and equal opportunity.

e) Develop clear program guidelines, Terms & Conditions, and resource materials that highlight the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), U.S. Department of State, as the program sponsor.

f) Seek ECA and U.S. embassy approval for participant recruitment and partner engagement.

g) Submit all subaward agreements, amendments, and related documentation to ECA prior to implementation.

h) Oversee partner performance and conduct routine assessments to ensure quality, accountability, and alignment with ECA objectives.

i) Monitor participant progress, engagement, and outcomes throughout their JCSVEI experience.

j) Maintain strong safeguarding measures to protect participants’ safety and well-being.

k) Immediately inform ECA and relevant U.S. embassies of any participant or program-related issues and actions taken.

l) Coordinate with ECA and U.S. embassies on all in-person exchanges, ensuring U.S.-based activities highlight American innovation, civic engagement, and community leadership, and conduct selection activities for the Alumni Fellowship Academy in consultation with U.S. embassies, inviting embassy representatives to participate in application reviews and interview panels.

m) Manage DS-2019 issuance for international participants traveling to the United States on the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa.

n) Enroll in-person participants in the Bureau’s Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE) and provide necessary support.

o) Conduct comprehensive pre-departure orientations and assist U.S. embassies in preparing outbound participants.

p) Arrange all program-related U.S. and international travel logistics.

q) Develop a dynamic media and outreach strategy that amplifies JCSVEI’s U.S.

impact and showcases American expertise and values.

r) Collaborate closely with U.S. Embassy Public Diplomacy Sections to promote recruitment and success stories.

s) Highlight participant and alumni achievements that demonstrate the mutual benefit of U.S.–MENA collaboration.

t) Produce narratives and data-driven stories that show how JCSVEI advances

U.S. foreign policy goals and public diplomacy impact.

u) Establish an Alumni Leadership Academy that deepens connections to U.S.

mentors, institutions, and learning opportunities.

v) Implement a grants program to support alumni-led projects that sustain U.S.–

MENA collaboration.

w) Expand alumni networks, activities, and engagement to enhance the long-term influence of U.S. exchange programs.

x) Incorporate the ECA Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) framework.

y) Maintain transparent communication with ECA through regular reviews, reports, and monthly updates.

z) Submit staffing plans, key personnel changes, and all external funding agreements for ECA approval.

The activities and the roles and responsibilities of the recipient for this program are outlined in the attached POGI document.

5. Goals and Objectives.

1. Advance U.S. foreign policy priorities by connecting American youth with peers in the Middle East through virtual exchanges that promote U.S.

excellence in science, innovation, and leadership.

2. Empower U.S. participants ages 18–25, including those from rural areas, to share America’s story—its entrepreneurial drive, technological achievements, and democratic principles—through collaborative digital projects.

3. Promote America First principles such as freedom of expression, rule of law, and individual liberty as foundations for creativity and prosperity.

4. Build sustained networks of emerging leaders who strengthen U.S.

engagement, expand digital connectivity, and advance shared prosperity and regional stability through continued alumni and exchange activities.

6. Program Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E).

Distinct from grants or cooperative agreement monitoring and participant monitoring, performance monitoring is designed to assess progress against a program’s goals and objectives. A performance monitoring framework is vital to tracking the direction, pace, and magnitude of change that result from ECA programs.

ECA created the Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) Framework to measure the performance of ECA programs. The MODE Framework provides standard indicators and corresponding survey questions to ensure consistent measures across all ECA programs. More resources and guidance documents on the MODE Framework are available online at: https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/.

The proposal must include the MODE Framework objectives and indicators listed below (note that, because not all MODE objectives and indicators are relevant for a program, the numbering below will not be sequential). In addition to the ECA-required objectives and indicators, applicants may also select additional MODE Framework indicators (see the Indicator Book on the MODE Framework website), or design custom objectives and indicators that are specific to the proposed program and this proposal.

• Demographic Questions as outlined in the Indicator Book on page v and Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) (See the MODE Resource Guide -https://app.box.com/s/qjo8icwj46tc8h1i1qtg80zl7ibwgtua – found on our website https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/)

• Objective 1: Advance participant and beneficiary cross-cultural competence and global perspective o Sub-Objective 1.1: Promote cultural exchanges and enhance understanding between participants and their host communities E1.1.01: Percent of participants reporting that their program experience offered opportunities to engage with other cultures https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/ https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/ https://app.box.com/s/qjo8icwj46tc8h1i1qtg80zl7ibwgtua https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/ https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/

E1.1.04: Percent of foreign participants with more favorable opinions of the United States Government (core indicator)

E1.1.09: Percent of participants who traveled abroad for the first time because of their program (core indicator)

E1.1.10: Percent of foreign participants who traveled to the United States for the first time during their program (core indicator)

E1.1.11: Percent of American participants indicating a change in their understanding of their host country's culture and values

E1.1.12: Percent of foreign participants indicating a change in understanding of third-party countries’ cultures and values

E1.1.13: Percent of foreign participants who are more likely to recommend the United States as a good place to study

E1.1.16: Percent of virtual exchange (VE) participants who report VE as their only likely way to interact with citizens from other countries in the future

E1.1.17: Percent of foreign participants with more favorable opinions of the American people (core indicator)

E1.1.18: Percent of foreign participants indicating an increase in understanding of United States culture and values (core indicator)

E1.1.19: Percent of foreign participants agreeing with statements in support of democratic values (core indicator)

• Objective 2: Increase the impact that participants and alumni have on their communities / countries E2.0.01: Percent of foreign participants that volunteer in their host communities E2.0.04: Number of hours that foreign participants spend volunteering in their host communities o Sub-Objective 2.2: Foster participants’ belief that civic engagement benefits communities/countries E2.2.01: Percent of participants who have more confidence in their ability to have an impact in their home country (core indicator)

• Objective 3: Strengthen engagement among participants, alumni, beneficiaries, and institutions E3.0.02: Percent of foreign participants who report increasing their network of Americans (core indicator) E3.0.04: Percent of foreign participants who report increasing their network of third country nationals E3.0.07: Percent of participants who identify as a Department of State program participant (core indicator) o Sub-Objective 3.1: Alumni subscribe to platforms for resources and information-sharing E3.1.02: Percent of participants who learned about new resources E3.1.05: Percent of participants who are connected to ECA through a U.S.

Department of State-managed platform

• Objective 4: Strengthen personal, professional, and technical abilities and aptitudes of participants and beneficiaries E4.0.01: Percent of participants reporting increases in their job skills as a result of their program participation E4.0.03: Percent of participants reporting an increase in soft skills as a result of their program participation E4.0.05: Percent of participants who report an increase in technical skills as a result of their program participation E4.0.09: Percent of participants reporting an increase in language skills as a result of their program participation E4.0.14: Percent of participants reporting new digital skills/competencies gained from virtual exchange (VE) programming o Sub-Objective 4.1: Participants engage in language, academic, professional, and cultural exchange programs E4.1.01: Total number of participants (core indicator) E4.1.02: Total number of program cohorts (core indicator) E4.1.03: Number of ECA-supported international scholarships provided E4.1.04: Number of professional placements E4.1.06: Number of participants in programs with formal, dedicated language learning activities E4.1.07: Number of instruction methodology trainings implemented E4.1.08: Number of language teaching fellows enrolled E4.1.11: Number of American reciprocal exchange participants E4.1.13: Number of fellows completing language teaching fellowships E4.1.14: Number of virtual exchange (VE) programs E4.1.15: Number of participants in virtual exchange (VE) programs E4.1.16: Number of audience members attending cultural events

• Objective 8: Enhance the quality and effectiveness of ECA programs by leveraging the Bureau’s resources, policy, and stakeholder relationships E8.0.03: Response rate for participant surveys (core indicator)

While the MODE Framework provides core measures, applicants are encouraged to propose additional, program-specific indicators that assess progress toward the objectives outlined on page five (Strategic Objectives) and page seven (Program Themes) and reflect the unique design of their proposed activities.

Performance Monitoring Plans (PMPs) ECA recommends the use of a PMP to serve as the primary reference document for performance monitoring for this award. If used, the PMP is an important part of any proposal, as it outlines how the applicant plans to track progress towards the proposed program’s goals and objectives through indicators and corresponding data collection questions. A PMP document that includes all MODE Framework indicators is a part of this solicitation’s attachments. Specific instructions on how to modify the PMP to be responsive to this solicitation are included in that document;

there is also a support video available for more information on how to fill out the PMP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBHC1oLNZvI. While ECA recommends the applicant use the PMP format provided, this is not a requirement. If a PMP is not included in the proposal, applicants should provide similar information to that found in the suggested PMP format, in a presentation of your choice. Successful PMPs (or similar documentation) should include the following:

• Objectives. Programmatic objectives are statements of the condition(s) that state what the program is designed to achieve. Objectives are therefore bound by the resources and timeframe of the program and must be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound (SMART). In addition to those outlined above, the applicant may propose other program objectives from the MODE Framework or other applicant-designed program-specific objectives.

• Indicators. Performance indicators are measures used to gauge progress toward programmatic objectives and sub-objectives. Indicators should be as specific as possible (following the SMART principles) and include any proposed disaggregations (meaning, breakdowns of the data by subgroups; the PMP lists the demographic questions required to obtain the information necessary to report the disaggregations). Each indicator should also include a target number to be achieved. A target is a planned level of result to be achieved within an explicit timeframe.

• If you do not use the PMP format provided, note that any performance monitoring reference document the applicant submits should include the information in the column headers (Indicator Name, Definition, Target, Survey Question, etc.) in the PMP attachment at a minimum.

• In addition to those indicators outlined in above, the applicant may propose additional custom, program-specific indicators in the PMP (ECA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBHC1oLNZvI recommends the proposed PMPs include a minimum of one indicator for each custom programmatic objective).

• During the period of performance of the award, the ECA program office may further revise, add, or remove indicators. Therefore, the applicant’s PMP and data collection instruments should be flexible enough to incorporate those once established.

Award recipients are responsible for collecting indicator data only on participant outcomes during the period of performance of the award itself (see the PMP for guidelines as to when these data collection efforts should occur). ECA will measure outcomes of ECA participants at one, three, five, and 10 years after the exchange has ended to capture the long-term outcomes of ECA programming unless otherwise specified in the solicitation. In this instance, the recipient will be responsible for coordinating with ECA on any alumni surveys to de-duplicate questions and minimize potential survey fatigue.

Regardless of the survey platform used, all MODE Framework survey questions outlined above are required (i.e., should be forced response); please see the Consent Language in the MODE Framework Indicator Book for more information on how to convey this to participants/survey respondents.

Program Performance M&E Narrative Proposals should include information within the program narrative section(s) that outlines how the applicant intends to measure the indicators listed above. This will be separate from the PMP and should include but not be limited to:

• An overview of resources available to the applicant that outline the team structure and responsibilities surrounding performance monitoring.

• The mechanism(s) through which surveys and other data collection tools (if applicable) will be administered, including which platform will be used, and when and how surveys will be advertised to participants – detailing strategies to ensure adequate survey response rates (https://app.box.com/s/pn6tavyg7sh064i502fzap49ox63y38a), and to reduce selection and non-response bias.

• A brief explanation of data analysis and reporting procedures.

• An overview of a proposed learning plan and feedback loops to ensure that the Grant Officer (GO)/Grant Officer Representative (GOR) are informed on performance monitoring issues at regular intervals.

https://app.box.com/s/pn6tavyg7sh064i502fzap49ox63y38a

Nonmandatory Use of the Qualtrics MODE Survey Builder Data Collection System ECA has created a guided tool (the MODE Survey Builder) within the Qualtrics survey platform for ECA implementing partners to generate surveys to facilitate the seamless collection and reporting of MODE Framework data. The MODE Survey Builder offers implementing partners a guided workflow that will generate a ready-to-send MODE survey, allows the addition of custom survey questions, and offers a standard report template for a quick overview of survey results that can be submitted in MyGrants (see section below) to fulfill RPM Reporting Requirements.

Use of the Qualtrics survey platform can be utilized at no cost to implementing partners. Additional information about the MODE Survey Builder can be found here: https://app.box.com/s/jjr98hmx6deorxj3lwgaxjrwdfec2r91 and here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jus4fRqOTcM. You can propose use of an alternate survey tool or use the MODE Survey Builder, but if you are utilizing the MODE Survey Builder, you must indicate such in your proposal.

MyGrants RPM Reporting Requirements MyGrants is a database solution that serves as the official system of record for all U.S. Department of State and ECA awards. The Results Performance Monitoring (RPM) module within MyGrants is an extension module that enables users to report performance monitoring data in the same system where they currently manage federal assistance actions. As part of ECA’s efforts to streamline data collection and management, the recipient(s) of this award will be required to input performance reporting data outlined in this solicitation into the MyGrants RPM. The data stored in the MyGrants RPM will provide ECA with a bureau-wide, uniform M&E reporting tool that is already linked with other elements of the awards familiar to existing awardees.

7. Allowable Costs.

• Staff salaries and benefits. Each staff person must be listed separately. Provide the percentage of time spent on the program.

• Other direct expenses

• Indirect costs

• Subawards

• Curriculum Development

• In-person Alumni Leadership Academy event costs including, but not limited to, honoraria for speakers, educational materials, lodging, room rental(s), welcome and farewell events, and participant admissions https://app.box.com/s/jjr98hmx6deorxj3lwgaxjrwdfec2r91 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jus4fRqOTcM

• Participant travel costs including, but not limited to, round trip international airfare, visa travel, ground transportation, domestic travel, and other transit costs

• Per participant allowances for travel including baggage allowance, travel allowance, and meals and incidentals

• Alumni Programming/follow-on activities, including grants, etc.

• Tax withholding

• Wire transfer fees

• Consultant fees

• Web hosting

• Communications (i.e., participant cell phones or sim cards, internet access fees)

• Recruitment, outreach, and program materials

• Medical expenses

• Medical costs related to pandemics/ public health emergencies, including but not limited to, testing and medically required quarantine (outside of medical facilities covered under ASPE)

• Covid protection and contingency costs

• Monitoring and evaluation

• Reasonable accommodations

• Media and Digital Production Costs: Allowable expenses for creating digital and media content that highlights program outcomes and impact.

• Other cost categories as necessary

8. Cost Share.

ECA encourages applicants to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding in support of its programs. When cost sharing is offered, it is understood and agreed that the applicant must provide the amount of cost sharing as stipulated in its proposal and later included in an approved agreement. Cost sharing may be in the form of allowable direct or indirect costs. For accountability, you must maintain written records to support all costs which are claimed as your contribution, as well as costs to be paid by the Federal government. Such records are subject to audit.

The basis for determining the value of cash and in-kind contributions must be in accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s Guidance 2 CFR Parts 200 and 600, entitled the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. In the event you do not provide the minimum amount of cost sharing as stipulated in the approved budget, ECA's contribution may be reduced in like proportion.

9. Freedom and Democracy Guidelines.

Public Law 104-319 provides that "in carrying out programs of educational and cultural exchange in countries whose people do not fully enjoy freedom and democracy," the Bureau "shall take appropriate steps to provide opportunities for participation in such programs to human rights and democracy leaders of such countries." Public Law 106 - 113 requires that the governments of the countries described above do not have inappropriate influence in the selection process.

Proposals should reflect advancement of these goals in their program contents, to the full extent deemed feasible.

10. Virtual Exchange Component.

When changing political, health, environmental, or other similar circumstances require a suspension or halt of in-person activities and where ECA determines that a virtual alternative is appropriate and viable, award recipients should demonstrate the ability and capacity to transition from in-person to virtual exchanges.

Proposals should demonstrate the organization’s capacity to provide innovative options for virtual activities to substitute for in-person engagement for program participants. Organizations should consider how they will implement virtual exchange activities, given the potential limits to internet access from participants in some locations and while continuing to advance foreign policy objectives and achieve lasting benefits for U.S. citizens and international participants.

In addition to planning for virtual exchange activities if in-person programming is prohibited, ECA welcomes innovative ideas on how organizations can leverage virtual programming technologies during or in addition to in-person programming.

ECA encourages organizations submitting proposals in response to this solicitation to suggest one or more virtual exchange components to complement the in-person exchange. The virtual exchange components could come before, during and/or after the physical exchange. The objective for the virtual exchange components is to augment the impact of the in-person exchange described in this solicitation. ECA encourages organizations to propose virtual exchange ideas that take advantage of ECA’s existing web and social networking platforms. Virtual exchange components would be coordinated with and approved by the ECA program office and U.S.

missions abroad on a project-by-project basis.

12. Communications Guidance for ECA Recipients.

All ECA Recipients must adhere to the requirements in ECA’s Communications Guidance on the creation of program branding and attribution, websites, social media, and press.

13. Celebration of America’s Semiquincentennial.

ECA is excited to play a key role in making the Semiquincentennial – commonly known as “Freedom 250” – a truly global celebration. As the period of performance for this award is scheduled to cover part or all of calendar year (CY) 2026, the applicant may wish to consider ways the program can celebrate Freedom 250. Any Freedom 250 focused activities or plans will be subject to ECA approval and direction, and changes may be requested by ECA. Use of any ECA-provided Freedom 250 brand elements will be subject to advance ECA approval and require adherence to Department of State and ECA guidelines for such branding.

14. Substantial Involvement.

In a cooperative agreement, the Department is substantially involved in program activities above and beyond routine monitoring, as follows:

a. Participate and provide guidance in the design and execution of all program activities, events, and approve locations of all main program components.

b. Approve partner organizations, including in-country partner organizations and subaward recipients, and any changes in partners made.

c. Approve all amendments for subawards of the JCSVEI.

d. Review and approve program timelines and agendas.

e. Liaise with relevant U.S. embassies and country desk officers at the U.S.

Department of State.

f. Review and approve all program publicity and other materials.

g. Review and approve, in advance, all travel paid for using ECA funds.

h. For non-U.S. Fellows, issue DS-2019 forms and assist with SEVIS-related issues, including providing Citizen Exchange Research Center (CERC) spreadsheets to the Program Office.

i. Assess the program, as necessary, through site visits and debriefing sessions.

j. Approve decisions related to special circumstances or problems throughout the duration of the program and assist as needed with participant emergencies.

k. Approve all outside funding sources supporting the JCSVEI.

https://www.state.gov/eca-grant-opportunities/ https://www.state.gov/eca-grant-opportunities/

D. Application Contents and Format

Please read the complete announcement before sending inquiries or submitting proposals.

Applicants must follow all instructions in the Solicitation Package, including the PSI, which contains guidelines for proposal preparation.

1. Budget Format.

Applicants must submit a budget (SF-424A), detailed line-item budget, and a budget narrative. See the PSI section III for more information on the budget requirements.

Applicants may provide separate sub-budgets for each program component, phase, location, or activity to provide clarification.

Applicants must submit SF-424A – “Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs” along with a comprehensive budget for the entire program. There must be a summary budget, a detailed budget, and a budget narrative. Applicants may provide separate sub-budgets for each program component, phase, location, or activity to provide clarification.

2. Content of Application.

Please see the PSI for information about the application and formatting guidelines.

E. Submission Requirements and Deadlines

1. Address to Request Application Package.

The entire Solicitation Package may be downloaded from the Grants.gov website at https://www.grants.gov or from the ECA website at https://www.state.gov/eca-grant-opportunities/.

2. Department of State Contacts For questions about this announcement, please contact Program Officer Davron Mirsagatov at the U.S. Department of State, Office of Citizen Exchanges, Global Leaders Division (ECA/PE/C/GL), at 202-632-2718 or mirsagatovd@state.gov , with a copy to Dawnjalice Brown, Branch Chief, at brownd4@state.gov.

All correspondence with ECA concerning this solicitation should reference the title and funding opportunity number listed at the top of this solicitation. Please read https://www.grants.gov/ mailto:mirsagatovd@state.gov mailto:brownd4@state.gov the complete announcement before sending inquiries or submitting proposals.

Once the deadline has passed, ECA staff may not discuss this competition with applicants until the proposal review process has been completed.

The terms and conditions published in this solicitation are binding and may not be modified by any ECA representative. Explanatory information provided by ECA that contradicts published language will not be binding.

3. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management

(SAM.gov).

Required Registrations All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov. A UEI is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards. An applicant must maintain an active registration while it has a proposal under review by the Department and must continue to keep the registration active for the entire duration of the period of performance of any Federal award that results from this

NOFO.

The 2 CFR 200 requires subrecipients to obtain a UEI. Please note the UEI for subrecipients is not required at the time of application but will be required before an award is processed and/or directed to a subrecipient.

Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from 4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible.

Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.

All federal award recipients must maintain a current registration in the SAM database. Recipients must maintain accurate and up-to-date information in www.SAM.gov until all program and financial activity and reporting are completed on any issued award. Recipients must review and update the information at least annually after the initial registration and more frequently if required information changes or another award is granted. There is no cost associated with registering or updating SAM.gov accounts.

http://www.sam.gov/

For more detailed instructions for registering with SAM, refer to:

https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration

Exemptions An exemption from the UEI and sam.gov registration requirements may be permitted on a case-by-case basis. See 2 CFR 25.110 for a full list of exemptions.

Organizations requesting exemption from UEI or SAM.gov requirements must email the point of contact listed in the NOFO at least two weeks prior to the deadline in the NOFO providing justification of their request. Approval for a SAM.gov exemption must come from the warranted Grants Officer before the application can be deemed eligible for review.

4. Required Registration with MyGrants.

All ECA award recipient organizations and recipient contacts and signatories must be registered with the U.S. Department of State’s MyGrants system by accessing https://mygrants.servicenowservices.com and clicking the “create an account” link.

MyGrants is the U.S. Department of State’s grants management system and is supported by the Department’s Integrated Logistics Management System (ILMS).

Recipient organizations and recipient contacts and signatories that have previously used MyGrants as a U.S. Department of State award recipient do not need to register again. If the organization is not able to access the system, please contact the ILMS Help Desk for help in gaining access.

Support for Recipient Organizations and recipient contacts and signatories is available 24 hours, 7 days a week (except federal holidays), and can be reached at 1- 888-313-ILMS (4567) or through the ILMS Self Service Portal at https://afsitsm.servicenowservices.com/ilms/.

5. Submission Instructions.

Method of Submission Applications may only be submitted electronically through Grants.gov (https://www.grants.gov). Complete solicitation packages are available at Grants.gov in the “Search Grants” portion of the system.

Grants.gov Registration, Application Submission, and Receipt Procedures https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration…