FY26 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026)

AEIF 2026 is designed to amplify the long-term impact of U.S. exchange programs by mobilizing alumni as strategic partners. The program strengthens alumni networks, promotes cross-sector and cross-border collaboration, and deepens sustained engagement between alumni and the U.S. government.

U.S. Embassy Nepal seeks high-impact, alumni-driven proposals that directly advance U.S. administration priorities, including expanding U.S.-Nepal commercial ties, promoting free speech, showcasing American excellence and best practices, and delivering practical, locally grounded solutions in strategically important sectors.

All proposals must align with the spirit of Freedom 250, reflecting the United States' 250-year legacy of innovation, entrepreneurship, and global economic leadership. Competitive proposals will clearly demonstrate how alumni are positioned as catalysts for innovation, drivers of economic growth, and key partners in strengthening U.S.-Nepal commercial and institutional partnerships.

Pillar 1: Innovate - Advancing U.S.-Driven Solutions and Expertise

Leverage the expertise of U.S. Government exchange alumni to apply skills, professional standards, and market-oriented approaches learned in the United States to develop locally driven solutions in Nepal. Projects should demonstrate how American innovation, business practices, technology, and regulatory approaches contribute to commercial diplomacy, private-sector growth, trade facilitation, and economic resilience directly supporting U.S. Embassy priorities and the Strategic Partnership Strategy (SSP).

Pillar 2: Inspire - Showcasing American Leadership and Values

Highlight U.S. leadership in innovation, entrepreneurship, education, technology, and workforce development by integrating American models, tools, and best practices into alumni-led initiatives. Projects should inspire broader adoption of U.S. approaches by demonstrating their competitiveness, transparency, and long-term value, while reinforcing shared democratic and economic values that underpin U.S.-Nepal cooperation.

Pillar 3: Ignite - Strengthening U.S.-Nepal Commercial and Institutional Partnerships

Promote collaboration between Nepali alumni, U.S. companies, entrepreneurs, universities, and industry experts to expand mentorship, technology transfer, workforce development, and market access. Projects should aim to ignite sustainable partnerships that strengthen bilateral trade and investment, foster innovation ecosystems, and create mutually beneficial economic opportunities for both the United States and Nepal.

Additionally, all AEIF projects must include at least one of the following:

1. Convene alumni from different exchange programs to build or expand an alumni network capable of working together on common interests and increasing regional and global collaboration of alumni. Every project proposal should include at least two exchange alumni or involvement of an alumni association.

1. Strengthen the relationship between alumni and the U.S. government to work together on activities that address shared goals and challenges.

1. Support alumni as they develop their leadership capacity and implement projects in their communities for maximum impact.