[U.S. Mission to Belarus](https://by.usembassy.gov)

May 4, 2026

$5,000–$35,000 per award; up to 2 awards expected

Supports teams of U.S. government exchange alumni to implement projects advancing U.S. foreign policy and celebrating the U.S. 250th anniversary in Belarus and its diaspora.

--- ## Description This opportunity funds innovative, alumni-led projects that leverage the expertise and networks of non-U.S. citizen alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. The goal is to transition alumni from passive participants to active partners in advancing U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the context of Belarus and its diaspora. Projects should address regional security, economic prosperity, freedom of expression, and digital resilience, with a special emphasis on collaborative action and celebrating the United States' 250th anniversary (“Freedom 250”). The program encourages cross-cohort collaboration and multidisciplinary approaches, aiming to build a resilient network of leaders committed to American democratic values. --- ## Due Dates - May 4, 2026: Full application / Closing date for applications --- ## Funding Amount - Award range: $5,000 to $35,000 per project - Up to 2 awards are expected for this cycle - No cost sharing or matching required --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be alumni of a U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange program (see [J-1 Visa Exchange Programs](https://j1visa.state.gov/)). - Project teams must include at least two (2) alumni. - Only non-U.S. citizen alumni may submit proposals; U.S. citizen alumni may participate as team members but cannot submit proposals. - Teams may include alumni from different exchange programs and countries. - Applications must be submitted by exchange alumni or alumni associations of U.S. government exchange alumni. - For-profit entities are not eligible. - Alumni can partner with non-profit or non-governmental organizations, think tanks, and academic institutions. - Only one non-profit, non-governmental entity can be the prime recipient if organizations are involved. - Sub-contracting is allowed, but responsibilities must be clearly defined. --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted by the deadline via the procedure outlined on the [program page](https://by.usembassy.gov/alumni-engagement-innovation-fund-2026/). - Proposals should clearly define team composition, project objectives, and alignment with program goals. - Ensure eligibility requirements are met before applying. - For questions or technical difficulties, contact the grantor at the email or phone below. --- ## Additional Information - Projects should prioritize collaboration across different alumni cohorts and celebrate the U.S. 250th anniversary. - Focus areas include digital security, economic opportunity, civil liberties, and community-driven solutions for Belarusian citizens (in-country and diaspora). - No cost sharing or matching is required. --- ## External Links - [Full program details and application instructions](https://by.usembassy.gov/alumni-engagement-innovation-fund-2026/) - [Official Grants.gov listing](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361807) - [J-1 Visa Exchange Programs](https://j1visa.state.gov/) - [Contact the U.S. Mission to Belarus](https://by.usembassy.gov/embassy/minsk/contact/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | |-------------------------|---------------------------------------|-----------------| | Ieva Miklasevskaja | [BelarusProgram@state.gov](mailto:BelarusProgram@state.gov) | 0037069032382 | | U.S. Mission to Belarus | [ConsularMinsk@state.gov](mailto:ConsularMinsk@state.gov) | (375)-210-1283 |

Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF)

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