Strategic commercial engagement for U.S.-AU Trade and Investment
This grant funds programs that strengthen U.S.-Africa trade and investment by connecting U.S. businesses with African markets, promoting American business practices, and fostering measurable commercial partnerships.
Funder: U.S. Mission to Ethiopia
Due Dates: June 8, 2026 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$25,000 per award (up to 3 awards); total program funding $40,000; typically 12 months
Summary: Supports projects that strengthen U.S.–Africa trade and investment ties and expand opportunities for U.S. businesses in African markets.
Description
This grant opportunity from the U.S. Mission to Ethiopia aims to advance U.S. commercial diplomacy by deepening trade and investment connections between the United States and African Union (AU) member states. The program seeks proposals that expand U.S.–Africa trade and investment, promote innovation and technology transfer using U.S. solutions, and increase economic opportunities that support U.S. commercial engagement. Target audiences include business associations, private-sector intermediaries, commercial institutions, and other stakeholders that can facilitate and expand U.S. business engagement in Africa.
Eligible projects should demonstrate clear, measurable outcomes such as new business linkages, memoranda of understanding (MOUs), commercial networks, and increased investment flows. Example activities may include business matchmaking, U.S. expert-led workshops, sector-specific engagements, and initiatives to address market access constraints affecting U.S. businesses.
