FY 2026 U.S. Creative Tech Exchange
A $1.32M grant will fund a U.S. nonprofit or educational group to run an international arts-tech exchange, connecting U.S. creatives and technologists with global peers in fields like AI, VR, and design.
Funder: Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs
Due Dates: July 6, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $1,320,000 total; single award; 18-month project period
Summary: Funds a U.S.-based nonprofit or educational institution to design and implement an international arts and technology exchange focused on AI and creative industries.
Key Information: Only one proposal per applicant; four years’ prior experience in international exchanges required.
Description
This opportunity supports the launch and implementation of the U.S. Creative Tech Exchange (U.S.CTX), an international arts exchange program designed to connect U.S. creative professionals and technologists with international peers working at the intersection of the arts and emerging technologies, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI). The program aims to strengthen American innovation, economic growth, and cultural influence by fostering collaborations in fields such as architecture, creative coding, gaming, fashion, graphic design, music, and immersive art (VR/AR/MR), explicitly excluding film and television.
The selected organization will develop and deliver short-term, hands-on activities for up to 30 early- and mid-career participants from the U.S. and 3–5 partner countries. Activities may include collaborative labs, fellowships, workshops, mentorship, and public showcases. The program is expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes in creative arts, economic impact, and public diplomacy, and is aligned with U.S. foreign policy priorities to promote responsible AI adoption, expand global markets for U.S. creative industries, and foster global networks.
