PDS Lusaka and ZUEA American Spaces Programming

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The U.S. Embassy in Zambia invites the Zambia-US Exchanges Alumni Association (ZUEA) to submit a proposal for a Cooperative Agreement not to exceed $29,409. To apply for consideration for these funds, please submit a proposal, using the format and application materials described below, outlining the activities that your organization would conduct in order to meet the program objectives below. The due date for receipt of this proposal is April 30, 2026. Before submitting the proposal, your organization should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications and assurances to ensure that your organization will be able to comply.

Issuance of this solicitation does not constitute an award commitment by the U.S. Department of State. A final award cannot be made until the proposal has been reviewed and approved, and an award agreement is drawn up and signed by the Grants Officer. The Embassy reserves the right to decide not to issue an award after receipt of the proposal. The Embassy also reserves the right to reduce, revise, and/or increase proposal budget in accordance with the needs of the program and availability of funds.

The U.S. Department of State's Embassy in Zambia announces an opportunity to implement a program to manage and disburse American Spaces program funds. The American Spaces program, administered through the U.S. Embassy Zambia's Public Diplomacy Section (PDS), are open-access learning and gathering places that promote interaction - both in-person and virtual - among local audiences and the United States. American Spaces deliver compelling programs and activities on a wide range of themes and topics, from freedom of speech and digital rights to American history and innovative use of AI and technology. American Spaces aim to provide accurate information about the United States and combat disinformation; engage and leverage alumni of U.S. exchange programs to execute programming to complement administrative priorities; facilitate English language learning and teaching; host strategic cultural programming; promote study at higher education institutions in the United States through EducationUSA; and offer professional skill building. Taken together, the American Spaces program strengthens the bilateral relationship between the United States and Zambia through professional and cultural development activities, advancing mutual understanding and long-term partnership.

In Zambia, the U.S. Embassy's Public Diplomacy Section operates three American Spaces throughout the country - the American Center for Leadership at the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka; the American Corner at the National Institute for Public Administration in Lusaka; and the American Corner at Copperbelt University in Kitwe.

This proposal also positions the American Spaces program as a key platform for advancing Freedom 250 - the U.S. government's global initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026. Freedom 250 provides an opportunity to engage international audiences in reflection on the principles that have shaped the United States, including democratic governance, civic responsibility, innovation, and active citizen participation. In support of this initiative, the U.S. Embassy Zambia and ZUEA have jointly issued a call for proposals inviting U.S. exchange alumni to design and implement projects with a Freedom 250 nexus. Once selected, ZUEA will disburse dedicated funds to alumni implementers, leveraging the reach and credibility of the exchange community to bring Freedom 250 programming to life across all three American Spaces. Programming under this banner will encompass themes such as technology, trade, free speech, entrepreneurship, and cultural expression - directly aligned with the American Spaces thematic mandate. All recipients of awards promoting Freedom 250 activities are required to incorporate Freedom 250 branding in program materials, activities, and communications, ensuring consistent visibility and impact throughout the anniversary year.