NOFO_ PD American Corners_FINAL.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Public Diplomacy American Corners SCA/Bishkek, Department of State

Opportunity number: STATE-BISHKEK-PDS-26-0005

Application deadline: August 7, 2026

Contents

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

U.S Department of State

SCA/ Embassy Bishkek, Public Diplomacy Section Notice of Funding Opportunity

A. Basic Information

1. Overview

Funding Opportunity Title U.S. Embassy Bishkek Public Diplomacy American Corners Funding Opportunity Number STATE-BISHKEK-PDS-26-0005 Announcement Type Initial announcement Deadline for Applications August 7, 2026; 11:59 p.m. (23:59) Bishkek time Assistance Listing Number 19.022 Length of performance period 12 months Number of awards anticipated Up to three awards (dependent on amounts) Award amounts Awards may range from a minimum of $25,000 to a maximum of $75,000 (approximately) Total available funding Pending availability of funds Type of Funding FY26 Fulbright-Hays Public Diplomacy Funds Anticipated project start date October 1, 2026

Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement. Cooperative agreements include substantial involvement of the bureau or embassy in program implementation of the project. Examples of substantial involvement are included in section C below.

Project Performance Period: Proposed projects should be completed in 12 months or less.

The Department of State will entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.

This notice is subject to availability of funding. The Public Diplomacy Section reserves the right to award less or more than the funds described under circumstances deemed to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated grants officer.

2. Executive Summary

The U.S. Department of State's Embassy Bishkek Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) announces an open competition to implement a program supporting the American Corners network in the Kyrgyz Republic—the U.S. government's primary information and cultural centers. They showcase American innovation to foreign audiences and promote demand for U.S. products and services, particularly as the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of its founding.

The program will provide strategic guidance, administrative oversight, and resource support to the network of six American Corners located in Bishkek, Kant, Naryn, Karakol, Manas, and Osh —serving approximately 200,000 visitors annually. Activities will enhance English language capacity through conversation clubs and educational resources; promote STEM excellence through hands-on workshops and mobile makerspaces; foster cultural exchange through speaker programs and events celebrating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence; and maintain free, open, and reliable internet connectivity and upgraded facilities to serve as premier platforms for Embassy-driven campaigns.

Target participants include emerging voices aged 14-30 (university students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and educators), students aged 12-18 in rural areas with limited access to educational resources, and established opinion leaders and teachers who can multiply impact. Kamkor Center initiatives demonstrate American leadership in accessibility through the the Americans with Disabilities Act and promote increased access to information and public spaces by providing tailored resources and programs about the United States to the Kyrgyz public, including people with disabilities.

By focusing on these priorities, this program will create long-term partnership opportunities with educational institutions and foster deeper U.S.-Kyrgyz ties in high-growth sectors. The program will increase engagement with world-leading American educational resources and technological platforms while promoting American values of free speech and innovation. By promoting increased knowledge of American society, culture, and educational and professional opportunities, the program will ensure the United States remains the partner of choice for educational exchange, cultural engagement, and technological innovation in the Kyrgyz Republic. Please follow all instructions below.

B. Eligibility

1. Eligible Applicants The following organizations are eligible to apply:

● Kyrgyz Republic-Registered:

● Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations

● Public and private educational institutions

● U.S. non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and educational institutions seeking funding to support cultural and/or educational program in the Kyrgyz Republic and partnering with Kyrgyz Republic-registered organization

For-profit entities, even those that may fall into the categories listed above, are not eligible to apply for this NOFO. Organizations may sub-contract with other entities, including for-profit entities, but only one, non-profit, non-governmental entity can be the prime recipient of the award. When sub-contracting with other entities, the responsibilities of each entity must be clearly defined in the proposal. For more information on the difference between sub-contract and sub-recipient, please refer to 2 CFR 200.331.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching Cost sharing or matching is encouraged but not required for this funding opportunity.

3. Other Eligibility Requirements 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.3 for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

Applicants are only allowed to submit one proposal per organization. If more than one proposal is submitted from an organization, all proposals from that institution will be considered ineligible for funding.

Applicants are encouraged to consider programs that leverage USG program alumni, new partners who could contribute substantive expertise to the program, and/or existing USG programming in the Kyrgyz Republic.

C. Program Description

1. Project Background, Goals, and Objectives American Corners in the Kyrgyz Republic are information resource centers that provide comprehensive and up-to-date information about the United States to promote mutual understanding between the American and Kyrgyz people. American Corners are a partnership between U.S. Embassy Bishkek and local universities (Manas) and libraries (Bishkek, Osh, Naryn, Karakol, and Kant). There are currently six American Corners throughout the Kyrgyz Republic that hold a variety of programs, including talking clubs, cultural events, movie screenings, workshops and master classes on topics like American tech innovation, leadership, and English language learning, that are focused on strengthening the ties between the U.S. and Kyrgyz people.

The network of six American Corners in the Kyrgyz Republic is one of the country's most popular public diplomacy initiatives. These spaces serve as the U.S. government's primary information and cultural centers that promote American values and showcase the United States as an economic and innovation leader to foreign audiences.

Past projects funded by the Mission have targeted various programs, such as English Language Programs, Cultural and Educational events, and STEM workshops. Successful projects have included:

• NASA Space Apps Challenge: A local hackathon held during International Space Week that engaged over 180 participants in solving real-world space exploration challenges using NASA data, connecting Kyrgyz youth with American space innovation and global problem-solving platforms.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.331 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.331

• STEM Roadshow and Workshops: Mobile programming reaching 20 locations across Kyrgyzstan, bringing hands-on experiences in coding, 3D printing, and technology to students in rural areas, demonstrating American leadership in STEM education.

• English Language Clubs: Virtual and in-person conversation programs led by native speakers and USG alumni teachers that improved communication skills, supported professional development, and strengthened connections to American educational resources and opportunities.

• Kamkor Center Programs: Initiatives that have showcased American excellence and expanded access for people with disabilities to educational programs and materials like English classes, computer literacy workshops, and accessible resources (including Braille books and audio applications).

This NOFO will support American Corners programming and engagement in the Kyrgyz Republic by:

• Enhancing English Language Capacity: Offering English language programs and conversation clubs to improve communication skills, support professional development, and strengthen the influence of the English language as a tool for accessing American educational and economic opportunities.

• Promoting STEM Excellence: Conducting hands-on STEM workshops, space science programs, and technical skills training—including the NASA Space Apps Challenge, mobile makerspaces, and astronomy clubs—to inspire youth to pursue STEM careers and recognize the United States as the global leader in STEM innovation, education, and training.

• Fostering Cultural Exchange: Organizing speaker programs, cultural events, and educational workshops that showcase American culture, values, and the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, creating lasting connections between American and Kyrgyz people.

• Building Strategic Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between U.S. and Kyrgyzstani organizations, educational institutions, and USG program alumni to create sustainable initiatives that advance mutual interests and American leadership.

• Advancing U.S. Economic Interests: Facilitating opportunities for Kyrgyz innovators, entrepreneurs, and young professionals to engage with American business practices, technology, and innovation—ensuring that U.S. support cultivates future partners for American commercial interests, opens markets for U.S. products and services, and delivers tangible benefits to the American economy.

• Strengthening Infrastructure: Maintaining reliable internet connectivity and upgrading American Corners facilities to serve as premier platforms for Embassy-driven campaigns, ensuring these spaces effectively showcase American excellence and advance Administration priorities.

Project Audience(s): The U.S. Embassy intends to reach multiple audiences through this program. Possible audiences include:

• Emerging voices aged 14-30, including university students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and educators.

• Students aged 12-18 residing throughout the Kyrgyz Republic who have limited access to STEM instruction and educational resources, due to residing in rural areas and due to mental and physical disabilities.

• Established opinion leaders, parents, and teachers who can multiply impact.

Project Goal:

Increase and sustain public participation among Kyrgyz citizens to engage with U.S.-aligned practices, values, and innovation that promotes mutual understanding, educational exchange, and cultural engagement through the American Corners Network.

Project Objectives:

Note – Applicants should address all the below objectives in their project proposal.

Objective 1: Strengthen operational functionality and programming of American Corners in the Kyrgyz Republic by providing strategic guidance, administrative oversight, and resource support resulting in:

o 100% of PDS-approved salary supplements distributed to American Corners staff o 100% of PDS-approved technology and educational materials delivered to American Corners host institutions.

o At least 75% of visitors report satisfaction internet access quality, facility user experience, and overall American Corners service experience o At least 20% increase in visits from emerging voices audiences (ages 14-30) to the American Corners compared to baseline and endline comparison.

o At least 70% overall visitor satisfaction rate with American Corners programming and user experience

Objective 2: Enhance English language proficiency among Kyrgyz youth and young professionals by delivering comprehensive English language programming across the American Corners Network, resulting in:

o At least 8,000 unique emerging voices (ages 14-30) participate in at least 1000 sessions in English language clubs, conversation programs, and educational activities during the 12-month project period o At least 70% of participating students demonstrating improved English language proficiency scores by at least 20% compared to baseline scores, measured through level appropriate pre- and post-program assessments.

o At least 70% of participating students reporting increased confidence in English language communication skills, measured through a pre and post training survey.

Objective 3: Increase Youth Engagement and Interest in STEM Fields by Conducting Experiential STEM Programming, Space Science Workshops, and Technical Skills Training Across the American Corners Network, resulting in:

o At least 1,500 unique youth participate in STEM, space science, or technical skills programming during the 12-month project period o At least 80% of participants reporting increased awareness of STEM institutions or educational/career pathways, measured through post activity questionnaires.

o At least 70% of participants report increased interest in pursuing STEM subjects and careers, measured through post-event questionnaires.

o 10% of participants report enrolling in follow-on STEM educational opportunities.

Objective 4: Strengthen Understanding of American culture, history, and values among Kyrgyz participants by Organizing Speaker Programs, Cultural Events, and Educational Workshops Across the American Corners Network, resulting in:

o At least 50 cultural programs and educational events delivered during the 12-month project period o At least 75% of participants reporting increased knowledge of American culture, history, and values, measured through post-event surveys

2. Substantial Involvement

● Management and Oversight of American Corners (ACs): PDS will provide substantive input on day-to-day AC operations to ensure alignment with Department goals and branding. Department involvement includes close collaboration between the grantee and the Regional Program Engagement Specialist (REPS) to ensure he/she is fully introduced to the specifics of AC operations in the Kyrgyz Republic. Involvement will include monthly coordination calls between the Embassy and AC coordinators.

● Program Alignment and Assessment: PDS will have substantive input on AC program selection to ensure programming choices and themes advance American leadership and produce benefits for the American people. This involves conducting regular reviews, assessments, and visits to confirm that ACs promote English-language and STEM learning, provide platforms for local communities to learn more about U.S. history, culture, and values, and serve as reliable sources of information about the United States.

PDS will approve event and programming requests at the ACs and may deny requests that do not sufficiently align with U.S. priorities.

● Staffing and Accountability: PDS will approve the selection of new AC coordinators and have input on the hiring process when selecting new coordinators is necessary.

● Technology and Connectivity: PDS will guide the selection of technologies and digital resources used in the ACs, enabling the effective implementation of U.S. Government programs and ensuring American IT excellence is well-represented.

D. Application Contents and Format Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible.

Content of Application Please ensure:

• The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity

• All documents are in English

• All budgets are in U.S. dollars

• All pages are numbered

• All applicant authorized signatures are provided where indicated on the various, required forms.

The following documents are required:

1. Mandatory application forms

● SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance – organizations) or SF-424-I (Application for Federal Assistance --individuals) at grants.gov or Embassy website.

● SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov or Embassy website.

• SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov or Embassy website.

(note: the SF-424B is only required for individuals, organizations exempt from registration, and for organizations not required to fully register in SAM.gov)

2. Proposal (6 pages maximum) The proposal (Attachment 1) should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below.

• Proposal Summary: Short narrative that outlines the proposed project, including project objectives and anticipated impact.

• Introduction to the Organization applying: A description of past and present operations, showing ability to carry out the program, including information on all previous grants from the State Department and/or U.S. government agencies.

• Problem Statement: Clear, concise and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed program is needed

• Program Methods, Design, Activities, and Deliverables: The “goals” describe what the program is intended to achieve. The “objectives” refer to the intermediate accomplishments on the way to the goals. These should be achievable and measurable.

• Project Activities: Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives.

• Project Methods and Design: A description of how the program is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve the goal. Include a logic model as appropriate.

https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family https://kg.usembassy.gov/grants/ https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family https://kg.usembassy.gov/grants/ https://kg.usembassy.gov/grants/ https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family https://kg.usembassy.gov/grants/

• Proposed Project Schedule and Timeline: The proposed timeline for the program activities.

Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events.

• Key Personnel: Names, titles, roles and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. What proportion of their time will be used in support of this program?

• Project Partners: List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees.

• Future Funding or Sustainability Applicant’s plan for continuing the program beyond the grant period, or the availability of other resources, if applicable.

• Monitoring & Evaluation Plan: Proposals must include a draft Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). The M&E PMP should show how applicants intend to measure and demonstrate progress towards the project’s objectives and goals. Attachment 4 of this funding opportunity contains a template that may be used to fulfill this requirement. While the grantee is free to create their own template, completing Attachment 4 will ensure a thorough PMP.

The key components to the PMP are as follows:

• Monitoring and Evaluation Narrative: In narrative form, applicants should describe how they intend to monitor and evaluate the activities of their award. In addition, the applicant should describe any M&E processes, including key personnel, management structure (where M&E fits into the overall program’s staff structure), technology, and as well provide a brief budget narrative explaining any line-item expenditures for M&E listed in the program’s budget. If the proposal is from a prior grantee, the proposal discusses how the grantee has adapted, improved or otherwise modified their approach based on learning from previous experience. This narrative is limited to two pages.

• Theory of Change Diagram: Applicants are expected to submit either a Theory of

Change diagram or an If-Then Statement that illustrates how project activities will lead to intended outcomes. Attachment 4 includes a suggested format for these requirements.

• Monitoring and Evaluation Datasheet: The applicant must include their proposed activities and their expected outputs and outcomes as well as the goals and objectives as written in the NOFO. The datasheet’s purpose is to explicitly illustrate how a project’s activities lead to tangible results (such as increased beneficiary skills, knowledge, or attitudes) that ultimately address a PDS objective. For more information, please see Attachment 5: Standard Indicators Sheet and Attachment 6: Instructions – M&E Performance Monitoring Plan.

• The selected applicant’s M&E PMP is subject to review and approval before any award will be issued under this NOFO. The selected applicant will be required to work with the Public Diplomacy Section’s Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist to ensure the applicant’s M&E PMP achieves an expected level of expertise and meets PDS objectives.

• Expenses directly associated with monitoring and evaluation are considered allowable. The suggested template includes a space to list the portion of the total budget amount directly associated with monitoring and evaluation activities.

3. Budget Justification Narrative

• Detailed Budget - Applicants must submit a detailed line-item budget. Applicants are encouraged to utilize the template provided with the funding opportunity but are not required to do so (Attachment 2). Line-item expenditures should be listed in the greatest possible detail. The budget must identify the total amount of funding requested, with a breakdown of amounts to be spent in the following budget categories: personnel;

fringe benefits; travel; equipment; supplies; consultants/contracts; other direct costs; and indirect costs. See Annex Section I for a description of the types of costs that should be included in each category. Personnel salaries should include the level of effort and the rate of pay, which should cover the percentage of time each staff member will dedicate to grant-based activities. If an organization is charging an indirect cost rate without a NICRA, it must apply it to the modified total budget costs (MTDC), refer to 2CFR§200.1. Budgets shall be submitted in U.S. dollars and final grant agreements will be conducted in U.S. dollars.

• Budget Justification Narrative – Applicants must submit a budget justification narrative to accompany the detailed line-item budget. The purpose of the budget justification narrative is to supplement the information provided in the detailed budget spreadsheet by justifying how the budget cost elements are necessary to implement project objectives and accomplish the project goals. The budget justification narrative is a tool to help Embassy staff fully understand the budgetary needs of the applicant and is an opportunity to provide descriptive information about the requested costs beyond the constraints of the budget template. Together, the detailed budget spreadsheet, the budget justification narrative, and the SF-424A should provide a complete financial and qualitative description that supports the proposed project plan and should be directly relatable to the specific project components described in the applicant’s proposal.

Additional Budget Notes:

• Audit Requirements: Please note the audit requirements for Department of State awards in the Standard Terms and Conditions https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm and 2CFR200, Subpart F – Audit Requirements. The cost of the required audits may be charged either as an allowable direct cost to the award OR included in the organization’s established indirect costs in the award’s detailed budget.

• Visa Fees: Include all visa application and related fees in your budget as applicable. Please note DS-2019s for post-funded programs must be submitted directly by the award recipient. If you anticipate your program will include the DS-2019 visa https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/section-200.1#p-200.1(Modified%20Total%20Direct%20Cost%20(MTDC)) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/section-200.1#p-200.1(Modified%20Total%20Direct%20Cost%20(MTDC)) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/section-200.1#p-200.1(Modified%20Total%20Direct%20Cost%20(MTDC)) https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm%20and%202CFR200 https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm%20and%202CFR200 processing, your organization must be a registered Designated Sponsoring Organization. For more information go to: https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/become-a-sponsor/

4. Attachments

• Key Personnel Resumes: A résumé, not to exceed one page in length, must be included for the proposed key staff persons, such as the Project Director and Finance Officer, as well as any speakers or trainers (if applicable). If an individual for this type of position has not been identified, the applicant may submit a 1-page position description, identifying the qualifications and skills required for that position, in lieu of a résumé.

• Letters of support from program partners: Letters of support should be included for sub-recipients or other partners. The letters must identify the type of relationship to be entered into (formal or informal), the roles and responsibilities of each partner in relation to the proposed project activities, and the expected result of the partnership. The individual letters cannot exceed 1 page in length.

• Indirect Costs: If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement

(NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included in the application submission.

• Proof of Non-profit Status: Documentation to demonstrate the applicant’s non-profit status (e.g., U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their 501(c)(3) Internal Revenue Service determination letter, and non-U.S. organizations should provide evidence of non-profit status issued by a government entity).

• Proof of Registration: A copy of the organization’s registration should be provided with the proposal application. U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their IRS determination letter. Kyrgyz Republic-based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government organization.

Other items NOT required/requested with the application submission, but which may be requested if your application is approved to move forward in the review process include:

a. Copies of an organization or program audit within the last two (2) years

b. Copies of relevant human resources, financial, or procurement policies

c. Copies of other relevant organizational policies or documentation that would help the

Department determine your organization’s capacity to manage a federal grant award overseas

d. Documentation that demonstrates the recipients’ plan and/or policy to safeguard PII of participants and beneficiaries. It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure protection https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx of personally identifiable information (PII) and safeguard PII when collecting, maintaining, using and disseminating such information

e. Information to determine what financial controls and standard operating procedures an organization uses to procure goods and services, hire staff and track time and attendance, pay for grant-related travel, and identify other financial transactions that may be necessary to undertake the project activities

f. The Embassy reserves the right to request any additional programmatic and/or financial information regarding the proposal.

E. Submission Requirements and Deadlines

1. Address to Request Application Package Application forms required above are available at Grants - U.S. Embassy in The Kyrgyz Republic, grants.gov.

2. Department of State Contacts If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact: BishkekProjectProposals@state.gov.

3. Unique entity identifier 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.

• Organizations based outside of the United States and that do not pay employees within the United States do not need an EIN from the IRS but do need a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.

https://grants.gov/ mailto:BishkekProjectProposals@state.gov

• Organizations based outside of the United States that do not intend to apply for U.S.

Department of Defense (DoD) awards are no longer required to have a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code to apply for non-DoD foreign assistance funding opportunities. If an applicant organization is mid-registration and wishes to remove an NCAGE code from their SAM.gov registration, the applicant should submit a help desk ticket (“incident”) with the Federal Service Desk (FSD) online at www.fsd.gov using the following language: “I do not intend to seek financial assistance from the Department of Defense. I do not wish to obtain an NCAGE code. I understand that I will need to submit my registration after this incident is resolved in order to have my registration activated.”

Organizations based outside of the United States and that DO NOT plan to do business with the DoD should follow the below instructions:

Step 1: Proceed to SAM.gov to obtain a UEI and complete the SAM.gov registration process. SAM.gov registration must be renewed annually.

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 a 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.

Please note: Any applicant with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.”

4. Submission Dates and Times Applications are due no later than August 7, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Bishkek time. This deadline is firm and is not a rolling deadline. If organizations fail to meet the deadline noted above their application will be considered ineligible and will not be considered for funding.

5. Funding Restrictions

i. Funding Restrictions for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA): None of the funds awarded resulting from this Notice of Funding Opportunity may be made available for subawards, direct financial support, or otherwise used to provide any payment or transfer to United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

ii. Certification Regarding Compliance with applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws: If the place of performance or delivery of any award made under this NOFO will be within https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2Fgsafsd_sp%3Fid%3Dgsafsd_kb_articles%26sys_id%3Dc81018e71b1601d0937fa64ce54bcb57&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=W2ShcazZBQbanYGj0cLOTnUJwv%2BGL4xfwr83%2BycQY2E%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=t32ANWzgpiB93pMWoq%2BFCSHz4YJY9QF1S1iQzCsS6RM%3D&reserved=0 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-A/section-25.110 the United States, applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the following at the time of award:

1) Its compliance in all respects with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws is material to the government’s payment decisions for purposes of section 3729(b)(4) of title 31, United States Code and;

2) It does not operate any programs promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion that violate any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws. A program promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion means a program whose purpose is to promote preferences based on race, color religion, sex, or national origins, such as in training or hiring.

iii. Certification Regarding Compliance with 20 U.S.C. 1011f and any other applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements: Applicants are advised that IHEs must certify the following at the time of award, and that this certification requirement must be included in any subaward agreements to IHEs:

1) Its compliance in all respects with section 1011f of title 20, United States Code, and any other applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements is material for purposes of section 3729 of title 31, United States Code, and for receipt of appropriate Federal grant funds.

2) Applicants seeking clarification on the reporting requirement are encouraged to review the Frequently Asked Questions resource developed by the U.S. Department of Education.

iv. Certification of Trafficking in Persons Compliance and Compliance Plan:

Applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the following at the time of award for awards where the estimated value of services to be performed outside the United States exceeds $500,000:

1) To the best of the Recipient’s knowledge, neither the Recipient, nor any subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor of the Recipient or any agent of the recipient or of such a subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor, is engaged in any of the activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a);

2) The recipient has implemented a Trafficking in Persons compliance plan to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175(a) and is compliant with this plan; and the compliance plan must follow the minimum requirements described in 2 CFR 175(b)(5).

3) That the Recipient has and will implement procedures to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a) and to monitor, detect, and terminate any subrecipient, contractor, subcontractor, or employee of the recipient engaging in these activities.

4) Recipients do not need to submit a copy of the plan. However, they must provide it to the Grants Officer upon request, and as appropriate, must post the useful and relevant contents of the plan or related materials on their https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/topics/section-117-foreign-gift-and-contract-reporting/resources/frequently-asked-questions https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-175 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-175 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-175 website and at the workplace. Recipients must re-certify on an annual basis for the entire award period of performance.

v. Prohibition on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manufactured or Assembled by American

Security Drone Act-Covered Foreign Entities

(a) Definitions.

American Security Drone Act-covered foreign entity means an entity included on a list developed and maintained by the Federal Acquisition Security Council (FASC) and published in the System for Award Management (SAM) at https://www.sam.gov

FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system means an unmanned aircraft system manufactured or assembled by an American Security Drone Act-covered foreign entity.

Unmanned aircraft means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft .

Unmanned aircraft system means an unmanned aircraft and associated elements (including communication links and the components that control the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the operator to operate safely and efficiently in the national airspace system.

(b) Prohibition. Recipients of funding under this Notice of Funding Opportunity (including subawards and subcontracts issued by the recipient) will be prohibited from:

(1) delivering any FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system, which includes unmanned aircraft (i.e., drones) and associated elements;

(2)Operating a FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system in the performance of the award; and

(3) Using Federal funds for the purchase or operation of a FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system .

c) Exemptions, exceptions, and waivers. The prohibitions described above will not apply if the agency determines that an exemption, exception, or waiver applies and the award indicates that such a determination has been made. [See sections 1823 through 1825 and 1832 of Public Law 118-31 ( 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.) for statutory requirements pertaining to exemptions, exceptions, and waivers.].

https://www.sam.gov/ https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fuscode.house.gov%2Fview.xhtml%3Freq%3Dgranuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title41-section3901%26num%3D0%26edition%3Dprelim&data=05%7C02%7CCarbullidoCC%40state.gov%7C237266465ee34b736eaf08de3442d869%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C639005658853841398%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=vOOQC%2FqEnM0FmwOBiz0sKQU2rkL0QZZz6YPZDhMeP3o%3D&reserved=0

vi. Pre-Award Costs: Pre-award costs are not an allowable expense for this funding opportunity.

vii. Construction: Any award made as a result of this NOFO will not allow for construction activities or costs.

viii. Direct Social Services: Costs that cover and provide direct social services, such as welfare, charity, health or economic relief, are unallowable. Medical assistance, such as costs to include medical professionals, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists to participate in the project activities are not allowed.

6. Other Submission Requirements: Copyrights and Proprietary Information If any of the information contained in your application is proprietary, please note in the footer of the appropriate pages that the information is Confidential – Proprietary. Applicants should also note what parts of the application, program, concept, etc. are covered by copyright(s), trademark(s), or any other intellectual property rights and provide copies of the relevant documentation to support these copyrights.

Applicants must acquire all required registrations and rights in the United States and the Kyrgyz Republic. All intellectual property considerations and rights must be fully met in the United States and the Kyrgyz Republic.

Any sub-recipient organization must also meet all the U.S. and the Kyrgyz Republic requirements described above.

F. Application Review Information

1. Review Criteria Each application submitted under this announcement will be evaluated and rated on the basis of the criteria enumerated below. The criteria are designed to assess the quality of the proposed project, and to determine the likelihood of its success.

● Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea – 25 points: The program idea should be innovative and well developed, with sufficient detail about how project activities will be carried out. The proposals should demonstrate originality and outline clear, achievable objectives that align directly with the priorities and requirements of the NOFO. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline, and the project scope is appropriate and clearly defined. Finally, the proposal aligns with the following:

o The project clearly demonstrates a direct contribution to current U.S. foreign policy priorities.

o The project will positively impact America’s reputation among foreign government partners.

o The project will positively impact American’s reputation among foreign publics.

o The proposal does not include any activities contrary to the following Executive

Orders:

▪ Executive Order 14173: "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity

▪ Executive Order 14287: “Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens”

▪ Executive Order 14168: Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government

● Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants – 20 points:

o The project proposal demonstrates that the organization has sufficient expertise, skills, and human resources to implement the project, including internal controls in place to manage federal funds.

o The organization demonstrates that it has a clear understanding of the underlying issue that the project will address.

o The organization demonstrates capacity for successful planning and responsible fiscal management. This includes a financial management system, a bank account, and if applicable, satisfactory audit findings.

o Applicants who have received grant funds previously have been compliant with applicable rules and regulations, including the Award Provisions and Standard Terms and Conditions.

o Where partners are described, the applicant details each partner’s respective role and provides curriculum vitae (CVs) for persons responsible for the project and financial administration. Proposed personnel, institutional resources, and partners are adequate and appropriate.

● Project Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives – 15 points: The project plan is well developed, with sufficient detail about how activities will be carried out. The proposal specifies target audiences, participant recruitment, and geographic areas of implementation. The proposal outlines clear, achievable objectives. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline. The project scope is appropriate and clearly defined.

● Budget – 10 points: The budget and narrative justification are sufficiently detailed. The budget demonstrates that the organization has devoted time to accurately determine expenses associated with the project instead of providing rough estimates. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. The results and proposed outcomes justify the total cost of the project. Budget items are reasonable, allowable, and allocable.

● Monitoring and Evaluation - 10 points: There is a complete and thorough draft submission of a M&E Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). This will include a list of proposed project activities, corresponding milestone, output, and outcome indicators, a description of data collection methods, and a timeline for collecting such information.

The proposal presents a clear theory of change on how the program will address that problem. Use of the suggested template (Attachment 4) will satisfy these requirements.

Funded projects will have their plans finalized during the negotiation phase, and monitoring plans may be subject to periodic updates throughout the life of the project.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/protecting-american-communities-from-criminal-aliens/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/protecting-american-communities-from-criminal-aliens/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/

● Sustainability – 10 points: The project proposal describes clearly the approach that will be used to ensure maximum sustainability or advancement of project goals after the end of project activity.

● American Expertise – 10 points: The project proposal demonstrates a clear plan to incorporate American leadership, values, and expertise throughout project implementation. The proposal articulates specific ways American experts, institutions, companies, or organizations will contribute to project activities, including their roles and value in achieving objectives. The project incorporates, and promotes, American technologies, resources, or methodologies that enhance project effectiveness and sustainability.

2. Indirect Costs

If two or more applications receive equivalent scores based on the evaluation criteria outlined in this NOFO, preference will be given to the applicant with the lower indirect cost rate, as consistent with Executive Order 14332, Section 4(b)(iii). This preference will only be applied as a tie-breaking mechanism and does not supersede the primary evaluation criteria.

3. Review and Selection Process

a. Acknowledgement of receipt. Applicants will receive acknowledgment of receipt of their proposal.

b. Review. All submissions are screened for technical eligibility. If a submission is missing any required forms/documents listed above in Section D. Application Contents and Format, it will be considered ineligible and will not be reviewed by the grants review committee. A technical review panel will review eligible proposals based upon the criteria noted in this NOFO.

c. Follow up notification. Applicants will generally be notified within 120 days after the

NOFO deadline regarding the results of the review panel.

3. Risk Review

i. Under the merit review as required by 2 CFR 200.206, prior to making a Federal Award the Department will review and consider the following risk factors:

a. Financial stability

b. Management systems and standards

c. History of performance

d. Audit reports and findings

e. Ability to effectively implement project requirements

f. Ability to collaborate with Kyrgyz government ministries/agencies

ii. High Risk Designation

Awardees that are deemed to be high risk based on the above risk factors will be held to special award conditions. At a minimum, the recipient and/or project designated as High Risk will be required to submit monthly narrative reports and/or quarterly detailed financial reports. Recipients may also be required, upon request of the Grants Officer or Grants Officer Representative, to provide electronic copies of receipts or other supporting documentation (e.g., timesheets, travel documents) for costs incurred. The Grants Officer may withhold 10% of the award amount until final reports have been reviewed and approved by the GO. The recipient may be required to pay all salaries supported by the grant via electronic funds transfer. Other special award conditions may also be included if deemed appropriate by the Grants Officer.

G. Award Notices Cooperative agreement will be written, signed, awarded, and administered by the Grants Officer.

The award agreement is the authorizing document, and it will be provided to the recipient for review and counter-signature. The recipient may only start incurring project expenses beginning on the start date shown on the award document signed by the Grants Officer.

If a proposal is selected for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional future funding. Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of performance is at the discretion of the Department of State.

Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S.

government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received.

Payment Method:

Recipients will be required to request payments by completing form SF-270—Request for Advance or Reimbursement and submitting the form to the Grants Officer and Grants Officer Representative.

Recipients may not draw down funds without the affirmative authorization of the Department of State. In addition, recipients must submit, with each SF-270 payment request, a detailed explanation justifying the request.

H. Post-Award Requirements and Administration

1. Administrative and National Policy Requirements Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award, to ensure…