Artificial Intelligence for American Competitiveness and Economic Security (AI-ACES) in South Asia
This grant supports secure deployment of American AI technology in key economic sectors and infrastructure of U.S. partner countries in South Asia, tailored through consultation with local and U.S. authorities.
Funder: Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs
Due Dates: August 2, 2026 (Full application submission deadline, 11:59 PM EST)
Funding Amounts: $2,000,000–$5,000,000 per award (anticipated 1 award); up to 36 months duration.
Summary: Supports secure deployment of U.S. artificial intelligence technology in strategic economic sectors and infrastructure across South Asia to advance American competitiveness and counter foreign influence.
Description
This opportunity, managed by the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) at the U.S. Department of State, funds a single large-scale project to deploy secure, American-made artificial intelligence (AI) solutions in key economic sectors and infrastructure across at least three South Asian countries. The program aims to advance U.S. strategic interests by promoting the adoption of U.S. AI technologies, enhancing data governance and cybersecurity, building local AI workforce capacity, and supporting policy environments that favor U.S. standards—directly countering the influence of rival technology providers in the region.
The selected recipient will work closely with the State Department and host governments to:
- Identify and deploy U.S. AI technologies in priority sectors.
- Develop and deliver AI workforce training and certification programs.
- Support policy development and data governance aligned with U.S. standards.
- Facilitate partnerships among governments, academia, and the private sector.
- Provide mentorship and technical assistance for sustainable AI adoption.
Target countries include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, with proposals required to address at least three.
