FY 2026 Future Leaders Exchange Global (FLEX Global)
The FY 2026 FLEX Global grant funds organizations to manage and place high school students in U.S. and overseas exchange programs focused on leadership, cultural exchange, and civic engagement.
Funder: Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs
Due Dates: June 29, 2026: Full application deadline (applications due via Grants.gov by 11:59pm Eastern)
Funding Amounts: Up to $22,000,000 for the Administrative Component; $400,000–$10,000,000 per Placement Component award; up to 11 awards; total available funding $35,000,000; project duration 21–36 months.
Summary: Supports large-scale, merit-based high school exchange programs—both inbound to the U.S. and outbound for American students—focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural engagement.
Key Information: Applicants may apply for one or both components but must submit separate proposals for each.
Description
This opportunity funds the implementation of the Future Leaders Exchange Global (FLEX Global) high school exchange program, supporting both inbound international students to the U.S. and outbound American students studying abroad. The program aims to cultivate a global network of young leaders who understand and support U.S. culture and priorities, with an emphasis on entrepreneurship, innovation, civic engagement, and leadership. Applicants may propose to manage either or both of two program components: the Administrative Component (overseeing recruitment, selection, travel, and overall coordination) and the Placement Component (handling host family and school placements, monitoring, and regional enrichment activities). FLEX Global builds on the legacy of the FLEX and Kennedy-Lugar YES programs, expanding participation globally.
