FY26 TechLeaders NOFO.pdf

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

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) FY2026 TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Technologies Exchange

Funding Opportunity Number: DFOP0018277 Application Deadline: July 6, 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 FY2026 TechLeaders: Critical Emerging

Technologies Exchange Funding Opportunity Number

DFOP0018277

Announcement Type New Cooperative Agreement Deadline for Applications July 6, 2026 11:59pm Eastern (Washington DC time) Assistance Listing Number 19.415

Length of Performance Period

24-30 months

Number of Awards Anticipated

1 award

Award Amount approximately $1,500,000 Total Available Funding $1,500,000 pending availability of funds Type of Funding FY26 Educational and Cultural Exchange

Programs (ECE) Funds

Funding Instrument Type Cooperative Agreement Anticipated Award Date July 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.

Pending satisfactory implementation of this program and the availability of funds in subsequent fiscal years, it is ECA's intent to renew this award for two additional, consecutive fiscal years, before openly competing it again.

2. Executive Summary.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Global Leaders Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposal submissions for the FY 2026 TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Technologies Program. TechLeaders will strengthen America’s technological edge and industry dominance by promoting U.S. leadership in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain/Cold Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech). This initiative engages approximately 60 foreign participants, ages 25-40, from Europe and Eurasia, East Asia and the Pacific, Middle East and North Africa, South and Central Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Western Hemisphere through a five-week intensive placement in the United States. Participants will collaborate with U.S.-based mentors and companies to develop actionable solutions in critical technology sectors, showcasing American expertise and innovation. The program will also feature overseas components including reciprocal exchanges and an accelerator following the second U.S.-based cohort to expand U.S. influence, inspire future STEM professionals, and foster collaboration with American businesses.

TechLeaders supports U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives by exporting American expertise and technological innovations abroad, promoting U.S.-preferred technology standards globally, bolstering economic ties, and countering the proliferation of malign competitors’ technology in the global market.

Organizations applying for this federal award must demonstrate the capacity to recruit, select, and place participants, manage all program logistics, and implement overseas programming, which includes annual reciprocal exchanges and a Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator program after the second cohort of participants.

The recipient will be awarded $ 1,500,000 for the overall FY 2026 TechLeaders:

Critical Emerging Technologies Program, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently to advance U.S. national interests and global leadership in critical technology sectors.

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. Therefore, organizations must demonstrate four years of experience in conducting international exchanges in your proposal to be eligible to apply under this competition.

c. All proposals must comply with the requirements stated in the NOFO, Project Objectives, Goals, 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.

Technological advancements are redefining every aspect of human life, presenting both opportunities and challenges that demand U.S. leadership to ensure these transformations align with American priorities and interests. From AI reshaping industries and societies to biotechnology revolutionizing medicine, agricultural technology addressing food security, and space exploration driving innovation and national prominence, critical emerging technologies are at the forefront of global competition and poised to reshape the geopolitical landscape in the upcoming decades. The United States must lead in these fields to secure its economic prosperity, national security, and global influence.

TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Technologies Exchange advances the America First foreign policy by leveraging U.S. technology expertise to strengthen global partnerships that advance American interests and reinforce the U.S. as the global leader in technological innovation. This program will engage approximately 60 participants (“TechLeaders”), ages 25-40, with at least two years of professional experience in STEM industries, pairing them with U.S.-based placement mentors for a five-week intensive program. Participants will focus on critical industries—Artificial Intelligence (AI), Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain/Cold Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)—that are vital to U.S. economic and strategic priorities.

Through project-based mentorships, TechLeaders will collaborate with their American counterparts to develop actionable solutions in their designated industries, showcasing U.S. technological leadership and innovation. Participants will also create reciprocal project plans under the guidance of mentors, ensuring their experiences translate into tangible outcomes that align with U.S. interests.

Industry-specific programming will further enhance their professional development, exposing participants to cutting-edge trends and reinforcing the United States as the global leader in critical technologies.

Approximately four to six months after the U.S.-based placements conclude, up to 10 selected American mentors will travel to participating countries to implement projects designed with foreign participants during the U.S. placement. Additionally, as part of activities in subsequent renewals, selected American mentors will participate in a “Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator” program following the second cohort of TechLeaders where they and foreign alumni of the program will lead professional development and industry networking activities for TechLeader alumni, in-country tech industry experts, in-country tech business leaders, U.S.

embassy representatives and the broader community. These engagements will expand U.S. influence in critical emerging technologies globally by showcasing U.S.

technological expertise, innovation, and thought leadership.

The TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Technologies Exchange reflects ECA’s commitment to deliver measurable benefits to the American people. By promoting U.S. technological expertise, fostering beneficial partnerships, and advancing American economic and strategic interests, the program strengthens U.S.

competitiveness in critical and emerging technologies while countering adversarial influence in key regions.

3. Program Specific Guidelines.

3.1. Eligible Countries and Participants: The below regions are expected to participate in the FY 2026 TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Technologies Exchange.

ECA reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposed project configurations, budgets, and participant numbers in accordance with the program’s needs and availability of funds. In addition, ECA reserves the right to adjust countries and/or regions should conditions change in a partner country and/or regions.

Eligible Regions:

Sub-Saharan Africa (AF), East Asia and the Pacific (EAP), Europe and Eurasia (EUR), Middle East and North Africa (NEA), South and Central Asia (SCA), and Western Hemisphere (WHA)

Participants selected to be TechLeaders must be residents in the above regions who are engaged in professional careers that require significant expertise/knowledge in critical emerging technology industries and/or innovative application of industry-related skills, and who already are, or show promise of being, role models for others in their countries. “Critical Emerging Technologies” should be interpreted broadly to include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain/Cold Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech), and business with emerging technology components.

Participants must have at least two years of work experience in a field that explicitly and directly involves and applies any of the critical emerging technologies in meeting professional goals. All participants must be proficient in written and spoken English.

3.2 Exchange components

3.2.1 U.S.-based Industry-track Exchange: Upon acceptance into the program, participants will be placed in one of five critical technology tracks—AI, Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain/Cold Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech). These tracks will serve as specialized networks, enabling participants to engage deeply with industry-specific trends and challenges while showcasing U.S. innovation and leadership in these fields. Each industry track will consist of approximately 12 participants, ensuring targeted collaboration and professional development. Participants will be placed with host businesses and organizations in the United States that align with their designated industry track, professional goals, and backgrounds. Host businesses and organizations will be selected to highlight American excellence in critical technologies, reinforcing the United States as the global leader in innovation.

Participants will be matched with U.S. placement mentors—mid-level professionals within the host businesses and organizations—who will oversee their projects and programs, ensuring alignment with the participants’ professional goals and the priorities of their industry.

3.2.2 Professional Development Trainings: The exchange will provide professional development trainings for all participants to enhance commercial outcomes and strengthen the promotion of U.S. standards in technological innovation. These trainings will provide participants with skills to facilitate trade deals, partnerships, and concrete business outcomes, and will increase their understanding of U.S. technology standards and encourage their adoption in the participants’ professional work. This component of the exchange ensures that TechLeaders gain knowledge of standards and norms that facilitate their ability to serve as viable business partners in technological innovation.

3.2.3 Reciprocal Exchange: During the exchange, all participants will work with their U.S. hosts to develop a reciprocal exchange project proposal-an actionable project plan to address a contemporary issue in their respective critical emerging technology industry in their home country. TechLeaders will receive dedicated support from American advisors throughout the process, from ideation to execution of the project in their home countries as reciprocal exchanges. This structure ensures that participants not only gain technical expertise but also develop actionable solutions that reflect U.S. priorities and incorporate U.S.

standards. See Sections 3.3 “Reciprocal Exchanges Framework” and 3.4 “Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator” below for more detailed information.

3.2.4 Program Orientation and Closing: The exchange program will feature a program opening designed to promote cohort integration and will include orientation and industry-track activities. Additionally, there will be a closing program in Washington, D.C. designed to serve as a capstone for the U.S.-based exchange, as well as an opportunity for USG engagement. All activities will reinforce the program’s emphasis on advancing U.S. leadership in critical technologies while fostering long-term partnerships that benefit both the United States and participating countries. See Section 4 “Award Recipient Responsibilities” below for more detailed information on exchanges and other U.S. based activities.

3.3 Reciprocal Exchanges Framework: The TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Technologies Exchange will incorporate a reciprocal exchanges component to ensure continued engagement with U.S. mentors, businesses, and institutions. This enhanced framework will fund up to 10 reciprocal exchange projects, in which American mentors travel to their TechLeaders’ home country to implement a reciprocal exchange project in one of the designated industry tracks (AI, Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain/Cold Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology), designed during the participants’ U.S.-based placement. Up to two projects from each of the five designated industries will be selected from all eligible project proposals submitted, for a total of 10 funded reciprocal projects. Applicants will develop a merit-based assessment rubric for the reciprocal exchange projects with guidance from ECA that ensures selected projects incorporate U.S. standards, foster long-term and economically viable collaboration between the U.S. and the host countries, advance U.S. strategic interests in critical emerging technologies, and amplify the program’s impact globally. During the Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator, taking place during subsequent award renewals, select completed reciprocal exchange project teams will be eligible to compete for Seed Grant funding to scale their work. The reciprocal exchanges will serve as a cornerstone for measurable outcomes, ensuring that participants remain connected to U.S. mentors and businesses while implementing projects that provide positive impacts to their own communities and align with U.S.

priorities.

3.4 Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator: A central component of the TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Technologies Exchange is the execution of the

Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator program following the second TechLeaders cohort. American hosts and TechLeaders alumni from each industry and each participating country will have the opportunity to travel to one participating country for one-week after the conclusion of the U.S.-based program and the reciprocal exchanges, beginning in 2029. This convening will highlight TechLeaders’ broad impacts in critical emerging technology industries, facilitate American and foreign alumni-led professional development and industry networking activities, encourage U.S.-facilitated cross-regional cooperation in critical technologies, foster opportunity for new economic or innovation collaborations in tech, and promote the TechLeaders program to future participants. The Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator program will support the development of an international professional network for individuals working in critical emerging technology fields by engaging alumni, in-country tech industry experts, in-country tech business leaders, U.S. embassy representatives and the broader community.

Additionally, the Accelerator will provide an opportunity to showcase implemented reciprocal exchange projects, offering those projects the opportunity to compete for further seed grant funding to continue their work, ensuring continued U.S.

engagement and presence. By showcasing U.S. technological expertise and innovation to broad audiences, the Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator will reinforce the United States’ position as the global leader in critical technologies and U.S.-funded exchange programs as a premiere vehicle for professional development opportunities in emergent technologies.

Funding for the Accelerator will be issued in subsequent renewals and shouldn’t be included in this proposals budget, but the applicant should demonstrate the capacity to design and implement the accelerator as a part of this proposal as is it a major component of the program.

3.5 Alumni Engagement: Proposals should include robust plans to establish and maintain an engaged alumni network that amplifies U.S. influence and strengthens ties between alumni and the United States. This network should serve as a platform for advancing alumni’s professional development in critical technology industries— Artificial Intelligence (AI), Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)—while fostering collaboration that benefits U.S. economic and strategic priorities. Alumni programming should also highlight the United States as a global leader in innovation and diplomacy, ensuring that participants maintain connection with the U.S. government through the U.S. embassies.

Applicants must incorporate existing ECA alumni initiatives into their plans, including leveraging the online community on the International Exchange Alumni website (exchangealumni.state.gov) and promoting other opportunities offered by the U.S. Department of State, such as small grants and professional development seminars.

All alumni communications and programming must adhere to ECA guidance for crediting the U.S. Department of State, ensuring that the program’s connection to the U.S. government is prominently recognized.

3.6 Partner Organizations & U.S. Business Engagement: Award applicants must identify U.S. and foreign organizations and individuals with whom they propose to collaborate to showcase U.S. leadership in critical emerging technologies.

Proposals should include letters of commitment or support from partner organizations that will assist in robust recruitment of participants, securing placement hosts, implementing reciprocal exchange projects and the Critical Emerging Technologies Accelerator programming. These letters should demonstrate a clear alignment with U.S. priorities in critical emerging technology industries—Artificial Intelligence (AI), Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain/Cold Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech). Applicants should also provide a description of any previous cooperative activities with these partner organizations, highlighting their mission, activities, and accomplishments as they relate to their ability to meet the goals of the program.

Applicants must clearly outline the roles and responsibilities of all placement organizations in terms of project logistics, management, and oversight, ensuring that all activities are designed to maximize the program’s impact in advancing U.S.

interests. These companies should demonstrate a willingness to host Emerging Tech participants from Europe and Eurasia, the Western Hemisphere, Indo-Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa, and/or the Middle East and North Africa, showcasing American expertise and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between the U.S. and target countries.

3.7 Projected Timeline: ECA envisions the approximate dates of the FY 2026 TechLeaders: Critical Emerging Tech Exchange program to be as follows:

• May 2026: proposals for NOFO due

• May 2026-June 2026: ECA/DOS review of received proposals

• July 2026: Notice of Award and kick-off meeting with ECA

• August 2026-February 2027: Recruitment, selection, and notification of foreign participants for general program. Recruitment campaign for U.S. hosting companies/institutions

• March 2027 – June 2027: Securing U.S.-based mentors and host sites

• July 2027 – September 2027: Visa issuance for selected participants and pre-departure preparations

• September 2027 – November 2027: Travel to the United States by foreign participants for orientation activities, placement at host sites, and a debriefing in Washington, D.C. (that includes a closing reception)

• February 2028 – May 2028: Reciprocal Exchanges

• May 2028 – July 2028: Program completion and lessons-learned.

3.8 Non-Mode Indicators

In addition to required MODE Framework objectives and indicators (See section 6), the award recipient should develop and track key outcomes that highlight the achievement of program goals and objectives (See section 5) as part of their Performance Monitoring Plan. These indicators should track longer term outcomes (such as partnerships that have been fostered as a result of the program) as timing of the award allows. A review of the MODE Framework indicators and custom indicators will occur during the negotiation phase; discussions on what data should be collected during the program and when should be expected to be finalized at that time.

The award recipient will also submit success stories on a regular basis that highlight both the accomplishments of the participants and hosts resulting from program participation. These highlights should demonstrate how the TechLeaders Program promotes U.S. technological expertise in critical and emerging technologies, strengthens U.S. competitiveness and mutually beneficial partnerships in tech innovation, and advances American economic and strategic interests.

4. Recipient Responsibilities.

The responsibilities of the recipient organization are as follows:

1. Merit-Based Recruitment and Selection: Develop and conduct a comprehensive, merit-based recruitment and selection process to identify highly qualified individuals from eligible countries. Participants will be sorted into critical emerging technology tracks—AI, Space Technology, Biotechnology/Health Technology, Supply Chain Technology, and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech).

2. Engagement with U.S. Companies: Identify U.S.-based companies and individuals to collaborate on tech-centric exchanges and networking opportunities. Demonstrate robust engagement with the private sector to expand networking opportunities and secure mentorship hosts in small-, medium-, and large-sized companies, showcasing American leadership in critical technologies.

3. Program Timelines and Guidelines: Create program timelines, guidelines and relevant materials for TechLeaders participants, and U.S. host organizations.

4. Project-Based Placements: Arrange meaningful five-week project-based placements for participants at U.S.-based STEM companies or institutions connected to critical emerging technologies. Placements will include peer mentors, cultural/social support, and reciprocal exchange planning, with additional educational and cultural programming to the highlight U.S.

a. Participants will be placed in tech hubs across the United States to maximize their exposure to American expertise and innovation.

b. Placements will be tailored to participants’ professional goals, address contemporary challenges in critical emerging technology industries, and facilitate opportunity for continued innovation and economic partnerships between the U.S. and participating countries.

5. Visa and Health Coverage: Issue DS-2019 forms for J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor program participants and enroll them in the Bureau’s Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE).

6. Pre-Departure Orientation: Conduct group pre-departure orientations to set expectations and provide program materials to U.S. embassies/consulates for supplemental orientations.

7. Travel and Logistics: Arrange all program-related travel, lodging, and meals for participants, ensuring efficient use of resources.

8. Arrival Orientation: Conduct a group arrival orientation in the United States, featuring general activities and industry-specific programming to integrate participants into the program.

9. Monitoring and Support: Monitor participants’ safety and well-being and oversee host companies/institutions to ensure program success.

10. Closing Program: Create a comprehensive closing program in Washington, D.C., including networking opportunities with U.S. government officials and critical emerging technology professionals. Handle all logistical arrangements and costs for the closing reception and participant travel.

11. Debriefing: Conduct a debriefing session at the conclusion of the U.S.-based program to assess outcomes.

12. Sustainable Mentoring Relationships: Create sustainable professional mentoring relationships between U.S. and foreign participants to strengthen long-term collaboration.

13. Reciprocal Exchanges: Promote and support the implementation of the TechLeaders’ reciprocal exchange projects following participants’ U.S.

mentorships to advance U.S. strategic interests globally.

14. Critical Emerging Technology Accelerator: In subsequent award renewals, develop follow-on overseas Accelerator program to reinforce U.S. influence and leadership in technology. This program will include industry specific professional development activities, industry networking events, seminars, and other activities to advance U.S. economic and strategic interests globally.

15. Alumni Engagement and Professional Networks: Develop an alumni engagement plan that connects TechLeaders alumni with the wider network of critical emerging technology professionals and innovators in eligible countries, ensuring sustained U.S. influence, alignment with U.S. strategic priorities, and long-term collaboration between the U.S. and participating countries.

16. Outreach and Communications Strategy: Design an outreach and communications strategy that highlights program outcomes and success stories featuring both U.S. and overseas participants and functions as a recruitment tool for the program. This strategy should include the use of print media, various social media platforms, short impact videos and other forms of related digital content to showcase achievements, demonstrate results, and communicate the program’s contribution to U.S. foreign policy objectives for technology while aligning with ECA branding and communication standards. The recipient will design and maintain an internal online TechLeaders website to share these highlights, stories, and updates with the public, prospective applicants, program alumni, ECA, and Posts.

17. Program Materials: Handle the publication of all program materials in collaboration with ECA and U.S. embassies/consulates, ensuring alignment with U.S. messaging and policy.

18. Program Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E): Conduct routine M&E of the program’s impact utilizing a system that incorporates the Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) Framework, non-MODE indicators developed in consultation with ECA, links program industry-track outcomes to stated program goals and objectives, and ensures consistent and high-quality implementation across all program industry-tracks and program components to strengthen program implementation and inform program improvements.

19. Financial Management: Manage financial aspects of the program, including timely disbursement of stipends and housing allowances, and report any irregularities promptly to ECA.

20. Program Reviews: Participate in regular program reviews with ECA (via in-person, video conferencing, or telephone) to assess implementation progress of program activities, address concerns, and review effectiveness of the executed program activities.

21. Staffing Plan: Provide a detailed staffing plan to ensure effective program execution, with any changes to key personnel submitted to ECA for approval.

22. Compliance: Ensure compliance with the terms of the Cooperative Agreement with ECA, including timely submission of financial and program reports.

5. Goals and Objectives.

1. To provide 60 emerging STEM leaders from AF, EAP, EUR, NEA, SCA and WHA with five-week mentorship experiences with American mentors in science and technology companies.

2. Provide emerging STEM leaders from all six regions with tools to advance their careers, spur and encourage innovation, use their networks to create opportunities for U.S. tech businesses, industry experts and academics, and commercial entities.

3. Increase economic and technological innovation partnerships between the U.S. and strategic countries from all six regions to counter competitor influence, globally.

4. Create and maintain a sustainable professional network of support for TechLeaders in critical emerging STEM fields in the United States and participating countries to support U.S. foreign policy to advance U.S.

economic and security priorities.

5. Increase participants’ understanding of how Americans drive development in science and technology, reinforcing the United States as the global leader in innovation.

5.1 Results and Outcomes:

5.1.1: A clearly articulated recruitment plan that ensures the selection of highly qualified STEM leaders from participating regions, prioritizing individuals who demonstrate the potential to advance U.S. interests in critical emerging science and technology.

5.1.2: Successful completion of a five-week mentorship program in science and technology companies by 60 emerging STEM leaders, showcasing U.S. expertise and innovation.

5.1.3: Demonstrated increased capacity of foreign participants to advance in critical emerging technology fields, with measurable improvements in their ability to innovate and collaborate with U.S. counterparts.

5.1.4: Enhanced skills in innovation and entrepreneurship among foreign participants as a direct result of the mentorship experience, fostering partnerships that align with U.S. economic priorities.

5.1.5: Development and execution of reciprocal exchange projects that foster long-term collaboration between U.S. experts and institutions and the foreign participants.

5.1.6: Increased participation of American mentors in the program, showcasing U.S.

leadership and expertise in critical emerging STEM fields.

5.1.7: Increased engagement of U.S. science and technology companies in the program, reinforcing the United States as the global hub for innovation and technological advancement.

5.1.8: Engagement of program alumni in participating countries to support the career development of emerging STEM leaders and cultivate further opportunities for collaboration with the United States.

5.1.9: Integration of the skillsets and expertise of American mentors throughout the program, ensuring alignment with U.S. foreign policy objectives and maximizing the program’s impact on advancing U.S. interests.

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 E1.1.04: Percent of 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 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/

E1.1.17: 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 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) 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 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) E4.1.04: Number of professional placements E4.1.11: Number of American reciprocal exchange participants

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)

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 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 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBHC1oLNZvI

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.

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

1. International and domestic air fares; visas; transit costs; ground transportation costs; airline baggage and seat fees; and in-country travel costs for visa processing purposes. Given the requirements associated with obtaining J-1 visas for ECA-supported participants, applicants should include costs for any travel associated with visa interviews or DS-2019 pick-up. Please note that all air travel must be in compliance with the Fly America Act. There is no charge for J-1 visas for participants in Bureau-sponsored programs.

2. Per Diem. For U.S.-based programming, organizations should refer to the published federal per diem rates for individual U.S. cities. Domestic per diem rates may be accessed at: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/category/21287. ECA requests applicants to budget realistic costs that reflect the local economy and do not exceed federal per diem rates. Foreign per diem rates for overseas activities can be accessed at: https://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=184&menu_id=78 https://app.box.com/s/jjr98hmx6deorxj3lwgaxjrwdfec2r91 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jus4fRqOTcM http://www.gsa.gov/portal/category/21287 https://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=184&menu_id=78

3. Return Travel Allowance. A return travel allowance of approximately $70 for each foreign participant may be included in the budget. The allowance may be used for incidental expenses incurred during international travel.

4. Cost of housing in the United States. The award recipient will be responsible for providing clean, safe and reasonably located housing for the Critical Emerging Technology Exchange participants during their stay in the United States.

5. Orientation Costs. The award recipient will conduct a comprehensive pre-departure and arrival orientation for all the Critical Emerging Technology Exchange participants. Additionally, the award recipient will provide to posts overseas appropriate informational materials about the exchange and the logistics involved in traveling to the United States. This information will be used by posts to conduct pre-departure orientations and/or supplement the orientations conducted by the award recipient, for the exchange participants in each country.

6. Accident and Sickness Insurance. The Critical Emerging Technology Exchange participants will be covered under the terms of a U.S. Department of State-sponsored Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE). The State Department pays the ASPE premium directly to the administrator. The proposal may include costs for supplemental health insurance for hosting organizations requiring specialized coverage and travel insurance for participants.

8. Consultants. Consultants may be used to provide specialized expertise or to make presentations. Daily honoraria may not exceed $250 per day. Subcontracting organizations may also be used, in which case the written agreement between the prospective award recipient and the subcontractor should be included in the proposal. Subcontracts should be itemized in the budget.

9. Room Rental. Room rental may not exceed $250 per day per event or activity.

10. Materials Development. Your proposal may contain costs to purchase, develop and translate materials for participants and mentors.

11. Wire Transfer Fees. When necessary, applicants may include costs to transfer funds to partner organizations overseas. Award recipients are urged to research applicable taxes that may be imposed on these transfers by host governments.

12. Debriefing and Reception in Washington, D.C. After the conclusion of the U.S.-based mentorships, the Critical Emerging Technology Program participants will take part in a one- to three-day debriefing and closing reception. The award recipient will be responsible for all costs involved in the debriefing, including the transportation for the participants to Washington, as well as their housing and meals while there. The award recipient will also be responsible for all expenditures incurred for the reception.

13. Funding for up to 10 Critical Emerging Technology Program participants’ reciprocal exchange project plans.

14. Website Expenses. Program branded website development, design, and maintenance costs.

15. Database Management Software. Applicants should budget for procurement of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software or similar alternative to ensure accurate, consistent, and real-time management of data that is required to be submitted to ECA as part of data reporting requirements.

16. Reasonable Accommodations. Organizations should budget for the reasonable accommodation of individuals with disabilities. Proposals should reflect plans to make necessary program modifications or participant numbers should these funds be used for reasonable accommodations.

17. Shipping costs for DS-2019 and other items.

18. Overhead and Staffing Costs. Costs necessary for the effective administration of the program may include salaries for recipient organization employees, benefits, and other direct and indirect costs per detailed instructions in the Application Package.