U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Public Diplomacy Annual Program Statement

The U.S. Department of State, through U.S. Embassy Jerusalem's Public Diplomacy Section, is soliciting applications for cooperative agreements to advance U.S. economic, commercial, and security interests in Israel, with applications due July 22, 2026. Individual awards range from $25,000 to $250,000, with up to $1 million in total FY26 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds available; projects run up to 12 months with anticipated start dates beginning no later than September 29, 2026.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations (including think tanks and civil society organizations), public and private educational institutions, and individuals. For-profit entities are ineligible. All organizations must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain active SAM.gov registration; individuals are exempt from this requirement.

Applicants must address at least one of five strategic goals: advancing U.S. economic interests and technological leadership; countering malign influence and promoting free speech; promoting President Trump's 20-point Peace Plan; advancing U.S. interests through American arts and culture; or engaging alumni networks of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. Proposals must demonstrate how projects advance American leadership and deliver measurable results.

Ineligible activities include partisan political activity, charitable services, construction, religious activities, fundraising, lobbying, scientific research, commercial ventures, and illegal activities.

Evaluation criteria weight quality and feasibility (30 points), organizational capacity and grant history (15 points), project planning and objectives (20 points), budget reasonableness (10 points), monitoring and evaluation plans (15 points), and sustainability (10 points).

Applications require mandatory federal forms (SF-424, SF-424A, SF-424B), a proposal not exceeding 10 pages, detailed line-item budget with narrative, monitoring and evaluation plans, key personnel resumes, letters of partner support, proof of non-profit status or registration documentation, and a security package addressing participant safety in Israel.

Post-award requirements include quarterly financial and program reports due 30 days after each reporting period, final reports due 120 days after project conclusion, annual equipment inventories, and compliance with 2 CFR 200, anti-discrimination laws, and trafficking in persons restrictions.

Assistance Listing: 19.040 (Public Diplomacy Programs).