Middle East Regional Cooperation (MERC)
The MERC Program funds joint applied research projects connecting U.S., Israeli, and MENA organizations to address regional challenges, promote innovation, and strengthen economic and strategic partnerships.
Funder: Assistance Coordination
Due Dates: September 30, 2026 (Statement of Interest & Application Deadline)
Funding Amounts: $100,000–$2,000,000 per award; up to $10,000,000 total; project period up to 4 years
Summary: Supports collaborative applied research addressing regional challenges through partnerships among U.S., Israeli, and Middle East/North Africa (MENA) organizations.
Key Information: Projects must include at least one Israeli and one eligible MENA institution; U.S. participation is encouraged but not required.
Description
The Middle East Regional Cooperation (MERC) Program, managed by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau for Near Eastern Affairs, funds collaborative, applied scientific research and innovation partnerships involving organizations from Israel and eligible Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries, with optional U.S. participation. The program aims to address shared regional challenges, advance U.S. economic and technological interests, and foster enduring partnerships that promote peaceful cooperation, economic growth, and regional stability.
MERC supports projects that go beyond basic research, emphasizing practical applications, commercialization potential, and regional adoption of technologies. Priority is given to proposals that strengthen U.S. technological leadership, expand opportunities for U.S. businesses, and demonstrate clear benefits for both the U.S. and participating MENA countries.
