[Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs](https://eca.state.gov)

May 5, 2026 (Full application deadline)

$1,000,000 total; one award; project period 24–30 months

Supports rapid, flexible, two-way exchange projects for emerging and mid-level leaders to build global networks and address U.S. foreign policy priorities.

--- ## Description This opportunity funds the design and implementation of the Leaders Lead On-Demand (LLOD) program, which enables rapid-response, customized exchange projects for emerging leaders and mid-level professionals from government, business, and civil society. The goal is to build self-sustaining networks and address urgent or emerging U.S. foreign policy priorities through intensive, two-way exchanges. Each project must include both a U.S.-based segment (for foreign participants) and at least one overseas segment (involving U.S. participants). The awardee will collaborate with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), U.S. embassies, and other partners to develop, recruit for, and deliver 4–6 exchange projects for approximately 75 participants (about 55 foreign and 20 U.S.). Activities may include workshops, meetings, or events, and projects should foster professional and leadership skills, cross-cultural understanding, and lasting partnerships. --- ## Due Dates - May 5, 2026: Full application deadline (applications due via Grants.gov by 11:59 PM Eastern, Washington, DC time) --- ## Funding Amount - Total funding available: $1,000,000 (pending availability of funds) - Number of awards: 1 - Award size: $1,000,000 (no range; single award) - Project period: 24 to 30 months - No cost sharing required, but cost sharing is encouraged --- ## Eligibility - U.S. not-for-profit organizations (including think tanks and NGOs) - U.S. public and private educational institutions (including higher education) - Organizations must demonstrate at least four years of experience in conducting international exchanges for awards exceeding $130,000 - All applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active registration in SAM.gov - Only one proposal per applicant organization will be considered --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted electronically via [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361400) - Required components: SF-424, executive summary, proposal narrative, budget (SF-424A), detailed line-item budget, budget narrative - Proposals must include a performance monitoring plan (PMP) using the MODE Framework or equivalent - Organizations and key contacts must also register with the U.S. Department of State’s MyGrants system - Detailed instructions and forms are available in the [Notice of Funding Opportunity (PDF)](https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FY26-LLOD-NOFO.pdf) and [ECA Grant Opportunities page](https://www.state.gov/eca-grant-opportunities/) --- ## Additional Information - The recipient is responsible for all program logistics (travel, visa support, health insurance, etc.) and must ensure compliance with J-1 visa regulations - Substantial involvement from ECA is expected, including approval of key personnel, project proposals, and participant selection - Proposals should include strategies for both in-person and virtual programming, to ensure adaptability - Allowable costs include travel, per diem, materials, consultants, room rental, and reasonable accommodations for participants with disabilities - Projects must not fund activities that encourage mass migration caravans or violate federal anti-discrimination laws --- ## External Links - [Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Organizational Funding Opportunities](https://www.state.gov/eca-grant-opportunities/) - [Grants.gov Opportunity Listing](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361400) - [Notice of Funding Opportunity (PDF)](https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FY26-LLOD-NOFO.pdf) - [Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) Template (DOCX)](https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/performance_monitoring_plan_mode_2.3_02.03.2025-4.docx) - [MODE Framework Guidance](https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/) - [Instructions and Mandatory Application Forms](http://state.gov/instructions-and-mandatory-forms/) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Email | Phone | |------------------------|------------------------------|-----------------| | Copeland Barnes | BarnesCL@state.gov | (771) 205-6717 | | ECA general inquiries | ecawebsitesmail@state.gov | (202)-632-6445 | For technical issues with Grants.gov, contact Grants.gov Customer Support at 800-518-4726 or support@grants.gov.

FY 2026 Leaders Lead On-Demand

Sign in to see full grant listing