U.S. Embassy Cotonou AEIF FY2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity

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NOFO

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
U.S. Embassy Cotonou AEIF FY2026 Notice of Funding
Opportunity
AF/U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Department of State
Opportunity number: OFOP0002524
Application deadline: April 22, 2026 (11:59 p.m.) UTC+1
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Table of Contents
A. BASIC INFORMATION .............................................................................................. 3
B. ELIGIBILITY.............................................................................................................. 4
C. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................ 5
D. APPLICATION CONTENTS AND FORMAT .............................................................. 7
E. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES ................................................ 11
F. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION ............................................................... 16
G. AWARD NOTICES .................................................................................................... 18
H. POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION ................................... 19
I. OTHER INFORMATION .......................................................................................... 21
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U.S Department of State
AF/U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Public Diplomacy Section
Notice of Funding Opportunity
A. BASIC INFORMATION
1. Overview
Funding Opportunity Title U.S. Embassy Cotonou AEIF FY2026 Notice of Funding
Opportunity
Funding Opportunity Number OFOP0002524
Announcement Type Initial announcement
Deadline for Applications April 22, 2026 (11:59 p.m.) UTC+1
Assistance Listing Number 19.022 – ECA Programs
19.040 – PD Programs
Length of performance period 10 to 12 months
Number of awards anticipated 2 awards
Award amounts Awards may range from a minimum of $5,000 to a
maximum of $35,000 (approximately)
Total available funding $70,000 pending availability of funds
Type of Funding FY26 Fulbright-Hays Public Diplomacy Funds
FY26 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds
Anticipated project start date 07/01/2026
Funding Instrument Type: Grant
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.
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2. Executive Summary
Benin hosts a dynamic network of U.S. government exchange program alumni, trained in
innovation, leadership, business, civic engagement, and emerging technologies. This alumni
network offers significant potential to drive national development and advance U.S. foreign
policy objectives, particularly by expanding commercial opportunities for U.S. businesses in
Benin.
To capitalize on this potential, U.S. Embassy Cotonou is launching an initiative in honor of the
United States’ 250th anniversary (“Freedom 250”). The initiative invites alumni to propose
projects that mobilize their network to train and mentor Beninese youth (ages 18–35) in two key
areas: (1) technology and entrepreneurship, and (2) civic engagement and leadership. The
primary audiences are U.S. exchange alumni, university students, early-stage entrepreneurs, tech
professionals, and emerging civic leaders.
The project’s overarching goal is to leverage alumni expertise to empower Beninese youth with
critical skills, thereby advancing U.S. foreign policy, strengthening bilateral relations, and
fostering economic growth and democratic participation.
B. ELIGIBILITY
1. Eligible Applicants
The following organizations are eligible to apply:
● Registered not-for-profit Alumni organizations
● Alumni on an individual basis
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, 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.
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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 under this funding opportunity.
4. This opportunity will not support:
● Projects relating to partisan political activity;
● Charitable or development activities; including direct social services such as medical,
psychological, and/or humanitarian support
● Construction projects;
● Projects that support specific religious activities;
● Fund-raising campaigns;
● Lobbying for specific legislation or programs
● Scientific research or surveys;
● Commercial projects;
● Projects intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the
organization;
● Projects that duplicate existing projects;
● Illegal activities
C. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
1. Project Background, Goals, and Objectives
Benin is home to a robust network of thousands of United States government exchange program
alumni, trained by American institutions in innovation, leadership, business, civic engagement,
and emerging technologies. This network presents opportunities as a coordinated force for
national development and for the advancement of U.S. foreign policy objectives in Benin,
including the expansion of commercial opportunities for U.S. businesses.
U.S. commercial foreign policy goals in Benin could benefit from a large pool of youth
employees, if they had access to technical and entrepreneurial skills training. Leveraging U.S.
exchange alumni to train and mentor youth on technical and entrepreneurial skills can address
gaps in Benin’s workforce, technology sector, and commercial markets—areas that could attract
U.S. investment and strengthen bilateral ties.
At the same time, it is important to engage Benin’s youth on their role in developing Benin’s
future, providing the political and social conditions necessary for business to flourish. U.S.
exchange alumni with leadership and civic engagement skills can train and mentor Beninese
youth to initiate community level activities that foster transparency, accountability, and civic
responsibility.
In celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, (“Freedom 250”),
U.S. Embassy Cotonou invites former exchange participants to present projects for activating
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their network of fellow alumni to train and mentor youth one of two thematic foci: technology
and entrepreneurship or civic engagement and leadership.
Project Audience(s):
Primary Audience:
• U.S. government exchange alumni in Benin
• Youth ages 18–35, especially university students, early-stage entrepreneurs, and tech
professionals
• Emerging civic leaders and creative professionals
Secondary Audience:
• Local business associations and trade-focused entrepreneurs
• Community organizations and cultural institutions
• Academic institutions and innovation hubs
Geographic focus: Urban centers with large concentrations of youth with at least a secondary
school diploma.
Project Goal:
To harness the expertise and leadership of U.S. government exchange program alumni in Benin
to empower youth with critical skills in technology, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement,
thereby advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives, strengthening U.S.–Benin relations, and
creating new opportunities for economic growth, democratic participation, and bilateral
cooperation in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Project Objectives (2 Options):
1. Technology and Entrepreneurship
A group of alumni will organize a six-month accelerator program for at least 20 youth aged 18–
30, focusing on technological innovation and startup development. Beninese youth participants
will be empowered with practical technology and entrepreneurship skills, while fostering
connections between U.S. businesses and local talent.
Suggested programmatic activities:
● Workshops led by alumni experts in STEM fields and business innovation.
● Mentorship from alumni and U.S. business representatives, guiding participants through
the process of developing viable tech-based startups.
● Startup Competition where teams pitch solutions to real-world challenges, with winning
projects receiving seed funding and opportunities to connect with U.S. investors.
● Networking Events to facilitate partnerships between Beninese entrepreneurs and U.S.
companies interested in local market entry.
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2. Civic Engagement and Leadership
A group of alumni will launch a six-month Civic Leadership Lab to promote democratic values
and active citizenship among Beninese youth, while celebrating the 250th anniversary of the
United States. At least 20 students will participate in the lab.
Suggested programmatic activities:
● Workshops to train youth in leadership, public speaking, and advocacy, using American
models of civic engagement.
● Community projects such as participatory public art installations and town hall forums,
highlighting themes of freedom, democracy, and inclusion.
● Civic engagement competition where youth participants pitch ideas to address a
problem in their community.
● Networking Events to facilitate partnerships between Beninese civil society groups and
U.S. NGOs interested in improving civic engagement and promoting democratic values.
2. Substantial Involvement
N/A
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 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
● SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov (note: the SF-424B
is only required for individuals, organizations exempt from registration, and for
organizations not required to fully register in SAM.gov)
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2. Proposal (10 pages maximum)
The proposal 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 or Individual 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 as well as
experience with and expertise in areas related to those described in the NOFO. Applicants are
encouraged, but not required, to use the attached Applicant Organization Information Survey
form to provide this information (Attachment A). If the applicant chooses not to use the
attached form, all of the requested information from the form will still need to be addressed
in the application package.
● 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. Describe the program
activities and how they will help achieve the objectives.
● 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 (if applicable).
● 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 A 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
A 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
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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 A 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 A: Instructions.
● 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 B). 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
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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:
● Awards to Individuals: Please note the following budget guidelines for the Individual
Award:
ο Salary/Honoraria: Only the award recipient may receive salary/honoraria from
this funding mechanism. The Recipient must be the primary point of contact and
manage all programmatic activities.
ο Contractual Costs: Additional individuals working on the award are only
permissible through contracted services, as long as the services are not related to
the core programmatic activities. Expenses for services such as accounting, legal
support, social media management, website designer, etc., are allowable.
ο Other Direct Costs: Expenses related to securing venues, managing logistics,
catering, etc. are allowable.
● 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 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.
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● 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. Benin 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 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: bj.usembassy.gov, grants.gov, MyGrants,
etc.
2. Department of State Contacts
If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact:
CotonouPASGrants@state.gov
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3. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov)
Required Registration: 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 also 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.
● 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.
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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
Submission Deadline: All applications must be received by April 22, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)
UTC+1. For the purposes of determining if an award is submitted on time, PDS will utilize the
timestamp provided by Grants.gov. 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.
Submission Method A: Submitting all application materials directly to the following email
address: CotonouPASGrants@state.gov. Applicants opting to submit applications via email to
CotonouPASGrants@state.gov must include the Funding Opportunity Title and Funding
Opportunity Number in the subject line of the email
Submission Method B: Submitting all application materials through Grants.gov. For those
opting to apply through Grants.gov, thorough instructions on the application process are
available at http://www.grants.gov. For questions relating to Grants.gov, please call the
Grants.gov Contact Center at 1-800-518-4726 or go to https://www.grants.gov/support.html.
Please note that CotonouPASGrants@state.gov is unable to assist with technical questions or
problems applicants experience with Grants.gov.
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 the United States, applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the
following at the time of award:
a. 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;
b. 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
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preferences based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origins, such as in
training or hiring.
iii. 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:
a. 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);
b. 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).
c. 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.
i. 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 its website and at the workplace.
Recipients must re-certify on an annual basis for the entire award period of
performance.
iv. 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 .
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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.].
v. Pre-Award Costs: Pre-award costs are not an allowable expense for this funding
opportunity.
vi. Construction: Any award made as a result of this NOFO will not allow for construction
activities or costs.
vii. 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 Benin.
All intellectual property considerations and rights must be fully met in the United States and
Benin.
Any sub-recipient organization must also meet all the U.S. and Benin requirements described
above.
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F. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
1. Review Criteria
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 – 30 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 – 25 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.
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● Project Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives – 20 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 (Attachments A) 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.
● Sustainability – 5 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.
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.
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2. 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
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
The award or 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.
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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 that they will be able to
comply. These include:
In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s guidance located at 2 CFR part
200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department of State
will review and consider applications for funding, as applicable to specific programs,
pursuant to this notice of funding opportunity in accordance with the following:
● Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2
CFR), as updated in the Federal Register’s 89 FR 30046 on April 22, 2024, particularly
on:
o Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on the
program objectives through an impartial process of evaluating Federal award
applications (2 CFR part 200.205),
o Promoting the freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with
Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free
Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O.
13864) (§§ 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341),
o Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods,
products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR part 200.322), and
o Terminating agreements pursuant to the U.S. Department of State Standard Terms
and Conditions, including, to the greatest extent authorized by law, if an award no
longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2 CFR part 200.340).
For the avoidance of doubt, the Department has sole discretion over the
determination that an award no longer effectuates program goals or agency
priorities, and this provision permits awards to be terminated at the Department’s
convenience, including when it determines that the award no longer advances the
national interest.
● 2 CFR 25 - UNIVERSAL IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD
MANAGEMENT
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● 2 CFR 170 - REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
INFORMATION
● 2 CFR 175 - AWARD TERM FOR TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS
● 2 CFR 182 - GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE
WORKPLACE (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE)
● 2 CFR 183 - NEVER CONTRACT WITH THE ENEMY
● 2 CFR 600 – DEPARTMENT OF STATE REQUIREMENTS
● U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS
● Recipients must comply with all applicable Executive Orders. A searchable list can be
found in the Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/ .
2. Reporting
Reporting Requirements: Recipients will be required to submit financial reports and
program reports. The award document will specify what reports are required and how often
these reports must be submitted. Note: most recipients will be required to submit quarterly
program progress and financial reports throughout the project period. The quarterly progress
report should include an up-to-date copy of the PMP datasheet. Progress and financial reports
are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final certified programmatic and financial reports
are due 120 days after the close of the project period.
All reports are to be submitted electronically.
The Awardee must also provide the Embassy on an annual basis an inventory of all the U.S.
government provided equipment using the SF428 form.
Foreign Assistance Data Review: As required by Congress, the Department of State must
make progress in its efforts to improve tracking and reporting of foreign assistance data
through the Foreign Assistance Data Review (FADR). The FADR requires tracking of
foreign assistance activity data from budgeting, planning, and allocation through obligation
and disbursement. Successful applicants will be required to report and draw down federal
funding based on the appropriate FADR Data Elements, indicated within their award
documentation. In cases of more than one FADR Data Element, typically program or sector
and/or regions or country, the successful applicant will be required to maintain separate
accounting records.
3. Branding and Marking
The Department of State, its programs, and U.S. Government funding and assistance should
be easily identifiable to the Department's global audiences.
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Recipients of federal assistance awards must follow the branding guidance published at
Guidance for Contracts and Grants - U.S. Department of State Brand System. Branding
policy exceptions are outlined in the U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual 10
FAM 416, Policy Exceptions.
For more information, visit: https://brand.america.gov/
I. OTHER INFORMATION
Guidelines for Budget Justification
Personnel and Fringe Benefits: Describe the wages, salaries, and benefits of temporary or
permanent staff who will be working directly for the applicant on the program, and the
percentage of their time that will be spent on the program.
Travel: Estimate the costs of travel and per diem for this program, for program staff, consultants
or speakers, and participants/beneficiaries. If the program involves international travel, include a
brief statement of justification for that travel.
Equipment: Describe any machinery, furniture, or other personal property that is required for the
program, which has a useful life of more than one year (or a life longer than the duration of the
program), and costs at least $10,000 per unit.
Supplies: List and describe all the items and materials, including any computer devices, that are
needed for the program. If an item costs more than $10,000 per unit, then put it in the budget
under Equipment.
Contractual: Describe goods and services that the applicant plans to acquire through a contract
with a vendor. Also describe any sub-awards to non-profit partners that will help carry out the
program activities.
Other Direct Costs: Describe other costs directly associated with the program, which do not fit in
the other categories. For example, shipping costs for materials and equipment or applicable
taxes. All “Other” or “Miscellaneous” expenses must be itemized and explained.
Indirect Costs: These are costs that cannot be linked directly to the program activities, such as
overhead costs needed to help keep the organization operating. If your organization has a
Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, attach a
copy of your latest NICRA. Organizations that have never had a NICRA may request indirect
costs of 15% of Modified Total Direct Costs (MTDC) as defined in 2 CFR 200.1.
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“Cost Sharing” refers to contributions from the organization or other entities other than the U.S.
Embassy. It also includes in-kind contributions such as volunteers’ time and donated venues.
Alcoholic Beverages: Please note that award funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages and
other entertainment related expenses.
STEP Enrollment
U.S. citizens who travel to Benin are encouraged to enroll in the Department of State's Smart
Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) available at: https://step.state.gov/step/. Enrollment
enables citizens to receive security-related messages from the Embassy and makes it easier for us
to locate you in an emergency. The Embassy also recommends that all travelers review the State
Department's travel website at travel.state.gov for the Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Benin
Specific Information.
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Proposal Sample Template

2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund Proposal Form

To be completed by exchange alumni team leaders or U.S. Embassy/Consulate

All sections in this form need to be completed in order for the proposal to be eligible for submission.

Application Form Guidance is provided at the end of this form.

Application Form Guidance

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Reporting Sample Template

# AEIF 2026 Reporting Form

Please attach this reporting form to the project record in the Alumni Contact and Engagement System (ACES) after the project is complete. Notify your Regional Alumni Coordinator once the form has been uploaded to ACES. Submitting reports is mandatory. Not reporting may affect Post’s eligibility for future Alumni Affairs funding.