[U.S. Mission to Croatia](https://hr.usembassy.gov)

May 11, 2026

$5,000–$35,000 per award; 2 awards expected; 1-year period of performance typical

Supports projects led by alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs that advance U.S. policy objectives, celebrate the U.S. 250th anniversary, and promote shared values.

Only alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs are eligible; U.S. citizen alumni cannot be team leads.

--- ## Description This funding opportunity, managed by the U.S. Mission to Croatia, seeks proposals for the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026. The program invests in alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs, supporting their efforts to design and implement projects that promote shared interests, U.S. policy objectives, and benefit local communities. For 2026, all projects must celebrate and promote "Freedom 250"—the 250th anniversary of the United States—and align with policy goals such as strengthening democracy, celebrating American excellence, and defending freedom of speech. Proposed projects should focus on: - Honoring U.S. values, patriotism, and global contributions through events and programs for the 250th anniversary. - Promoting global understanding of U.S. founding principles via educational, dialogue, and storytelling initiatives. - Inspiring future leadership and innovation by highlighting the U.S. commitment to freedom and security. Winning projects from Croatia will be nominated for final consideration and compete globally for AEIF funding. --- ## Due Dates - May 11, 2026: Full application deadline (current closing date for applications) --- ## Funding Amount - Award range: $5,000 to $35,000 per project - Expected number of awards: 2 - Typical period of performance: 1 year - No cost sharing or matching required --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. - Projects must involve at least two alumni, with one designated as the team lead. - Alumni associations from countries with U.S. representation may apply, but must specify a team lead. - If three or more alumni are applying, U.S. citizen alumni may be included, but teams must have at least two non-U.S. citizen alumni; U.S. citizens cannot be team leads. - All organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active registration in SAM.gov. --- ## Application Process - Prepare a proposal that aligns with the outlined goals and eligibility criteria. - Submit the application by May 11, 2026, via the [Grants.gov opportunity page](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361985). - Proposals selected by the U.S. Mission to Croatia will be nominated for final AEIF consideration at the global level. - Final funding decisions are made by the AEIF program after reviewing all country nominations. --- ## Additional Information - Cost sharing or matching is not required. - This solicitation does not obligate the U.S. government to award funding; budgets may be revised based on program needs and available funds. - Only alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs are eligible. --- ## External Links - [Opportunity on Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361985) - [U.S. Mission to Croatia](https://hr.usembassy.gov) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |------------------------|----------------------------------------------------| | General inquiries | [zagrebalumnigrants@state.gov](mailto:zagrebalumnigrants@state.gov) | | U.S. Mission to Croatia| [Contact page](https://hr.usembassy.gov/embassy/zagreb/contact/) |

Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

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