2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF)

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) is a key initiative of the U.S. Department of State aimed at empowering alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. The 2026 cycle of the AEIF, administered by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda, aligns with the commemoration of the United States' 250th anniversary, Freedom 250. The fund provides financial support for collaborative, alumni-led projects that aim to strengthen U.S.–Rwanda ties and advance shared prosperity. With an overarching emphasis on community engagement, economic growth, and innovation, this funding opportunity is designed to leverage the skills, experiences, and networks alumni have developed through their participation in U.S. exchange programs. The 2026 AEIF focuses on initiatives that promote collaboration between the United States and Rwanda in strategic sectors such as education, health, technology, and commerce. It aims to cultivate sustainable partnerships and foster innovation-driven growth through activities like workshops, training, and pilot programs. In line with Freedom 250’s goals, funded projects must demonstrate clear, measurable outcomes and support objectives such as commercial diplomacy, job readiness, or showcasing U.S. innovation. Projects must also promote alumni engagement by building networks, strengthening ties with the U.S. Embassy, or advancing alumni leadership in community initiatives. Eligible applicants for this opportunity include alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. Proposals must be submitted by alumni or alumni associations, and each project team must include at least two alumni. U.S. citizen alumni may participate but cannot serve as lead applicants. Individuals and partner organizations such as nonprofits, think tanks, and academic institutions are eligible to implement projects. All applications must meet eligibility requirements, and organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier and active SAM.gov registration. Cost-sharing is encouraged but not mandatory. Applicants must submit a complete application package by April 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. GMT +2. The submission can be made via email to [email protected], and the subject line must include the funding title and number. Required forms include SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B (as applicable), along with a proposal narrative, budget, and supporting documentation such as key personnel résumés, letters of support, and proof of registration or nonprofit status. A Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan must also be included. Projects must be completed within 6 to 12 months, with a projected start date in August 2026. Awards will be issued as cooperative agreements, indicating substantial involvement from the U.S. Embassy in program implementation, such as participant selection and review of deliverables. Awards will range from $5,000 to $35,000, and up to two grants may be awarded, contingent upon available funding. Although continuation funding may be considered, it is not guaranteed and depends on performance and resource availability. Applications will be evaluated based on criteria such as the feasibility and innovation of the program idea, organizational capacity, planning and implementation, budget accuracy, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Final selections will be communicated approximately 120 days after the application deadline. Funded recipients must submit regular financial and programmatic reports and adhere to U.S. Department of State branding, anti-discrimination, and anti-trafficking compliance requirements.

Focus on measurable outcomes and Freedom 250 themes. Ensure clarity on alumni roles and partnerships.