[U.S. Mission to South Sudan](https://ss.usembassy.gov)

May 7, 2026

$5,000–$35,000 per award, 12-month projects, ~2 awards expected

Supports teams of alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs to implement community-impact projects in South Sudan aligned with U.S. policy goals and celebrating the U.S. 250th anniversary.

Applicants must be teams of at least two eligible alumni; U.S. citizens may not submit but can participate.

--- ## Description This opportunity provides funding for alumni of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs to collaboratively design and implement innovative projects that address community needs in South Sudan. Projects must align with U.S. policy objectives, promote the 250th anniversary of the United States (Freedom 250), and focus on themes such as peace, freedom of speech, commercial diplomacy, and leadership development. The fund aims to strengthen alumni networks, support collaboration with the U.S. government, and empower alumni to create local impact. --- ## Due Dates - **Full Application Deadline:** May 7, 2026 (by 23:00 GMT+2) Applications received after this date will not be considered. --- ## Funding Amount - **Award Range:** $5,000 to $35,000 per project - **Project Duration:** Up to 12 months - **Expected Number of Awards:** 2 - **Total Available Funding:** Up to $70,000 (pending availability) Cost sharing or matching is encouraged but not required. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be alumni of a U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange program (see [eligible programs](https://alumni.state.gov/list-exchange-programs) and [J-1 programs](https://j1visa.state.gov/)). - Project teams must include at least two eligible alumni. - U.S. citizens may not submit proposals but may participate as team members. - Teams may include alumni from different exchange programs and countries. - Applications must be submitted by exchange alumni or alumni associations; organizations cannot apply in their own name but may partner in project implementation. - Individuals are not required to have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) or be registered in SAM.gov; organizations must have both. - Only one proposal per applicant or organization is allowed. **Not eligible:** For-profit entities, organizations applying in their own name, and projects led by U.S. citizen alumni. --- ## Application Process - Download and complete the required application forms (SF-424, SF-424A, SF-424B) from [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/). - Prepare a proposal (max 10 pages) including a summary, problem statement, objectives, methods, timeline, key personnel, partners, sustainability plan, and a monitoring & evaluation (M&E) plan. - Submit all materials in English and budgets in U.S. dollars. - Submit the application via email to JubaPDS@state.gov with the funding opportunity title and number in the subject line. - Attach required documents: resumes, letters of support, proof of non-profit status (if applicable), and registration documents for organizations. - Applications must be received by the deadline; late or incomplete submissions will be ineligible. --- ## Additional Information - **Ineligible Activities:** Projects related to partisan politics, direct social services, construction, religious activities, fundraising, lobbying, scientific research, commercial or institutional development, duplicative or illegal activities are not supported. - **Monitoring & Evaluation:** A robust M&E plan is required and must be finalized with the Public Diplomacy Section if selected. - **Reporting:** Quarterly progress and financial reports are required; a final report is due after project completion. - **Allowable Costs:** Project management, contractual services, supplies, travel, equipment, and M&E activities. See [budget guidelines](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/AEIF-2026-Budget-Form.xlsx) for details. - **Non-Allowable Costs:** Staff salaries, construction, alcohol, entertainment, institutional development, and activities in the U.S. --- ## External Links - [Full Grants.gov Listing](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361828) - [Notice of Funding Opportunity (PDF)](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/AEIF-FY26-Juba-NOFO-Final-.pdf) - [Proposal Form & Guidelines (DOCX)](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/AEIF-2026-Proposal-Form.docx) - [Budget Template & Guidance (XLSX)](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/AEIF-2026-Budget-Form.xlsx) - [Monitoring & Evaluation Resource Guide (DOCX)](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/AEIF-2026-Monitoring-and-Evaluation-Resource-Guide.docx) - [Eligible Exchange Programs](https://alumni.state.gov/list-exchange-programs) - [J-1 Visa Exchange Programs](https://j1visa.state.gov/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Notes | |--------------|----------------------------|--------------------|-------------------------------------------------| | James Ajak | kulangea@state.gov | +211 912 153 939 | Grants contact at U.S. Mission to South Sudan | | General Info | JubaPDS@state.gov | | For submission and general inquiries | | Embassy | usembassyjuba@state.gov | (249)-912-153-939 | General embassy contact |

Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026)

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