2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026)
The U.S. Embassy in Bahrain invites teams of U.S. exchange program alumni to apply for funding for community projects that support U.S. policy goals and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by April 30, 2026.
Funder: U.S. Mission to Bahrain
Due Dates: April 30, 2026: Full application submission deadline — all applications must be received by 5:00pm Close of Business Arab Standard Time (AST) (UTC+3)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$35,000 per project; up to 2 awards; total funding available: $70,000; project duration up to 12 months
Summary: Supports alumni-led projects by teams of U.S. government exchange alumni that advance U.S. foreign policy, strengthen people-to-people ties, and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
Key Information: Applicants must be teams of at least two alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs; projects must take place outside the U.S. and its territories.
Description
This funding opportunity, offered by the U.S. Mission to Bahrain, supports innovative, alumni-led projects that leverage the skills and networks of U.S. government exchange program alumni. The goal is to advance U.S. foreign policy objectives, strengthen connections between the United States and Bahrain, and amplify the long-term impact of U.S. exchange programs. Projects should clearly demonstrate how alumni apply their exchange experience to address shared challenges in their communities and must celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
Eligible projects may focus on building collaborative alumni networks, strengthening partnerships with the U.S. government, or supporting alumni leadership and community-based initiatives. All activities must align with U.S. policy priorities and take place outside the United States and its territories.
