Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026 is a competitive grant opportunity administered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy in Burkina Faso. This program is specifically targeted at alumni of U.S. government-funded or -sponsored exchange programs. It provides a platform for alumni to harness their experience and skills to design and implement public service projects that align with the U.S. government’s foreign policy goals. The fund serves to enhance the long-term impact of U.S. exchange programs by engaging alumni in community-oriented initiatives that promote shared values such as leadership, civic responsibility, and innovation. The fund is designed to support projects that directly advance U.S. Mission goals and promote Freedom250—the campaign commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. All submitted projects must feature Freedom250-themed engagements and foster patriotic values such as innovation, generosity, and courage. Eligible projects should align with one or more of the following objectives: strengthening alumni networks, enhancing alumni cooperation at regional or global levels, reinforcing connections between alumni and the U.S. government, or empowering alumni to carry out impactful community initiatives. Awards are expected to range from $5,000 to $35,000, with a total of $70,000 in available funding, contingent on availability. A maximum of two awards are anticipated. The project period is 12 months, starting on or about October 1, 2026, and concluding by September 2027. Cost sharing is not mandatory, but it is highly encouraged to reflect community buy-in and promote long-term sustainability. This may include in-kind contributions, donated services, volunteer time, or other forms of local support. Applications must be submitted by April 20, 2026, at 17:00 UT to [email protected]. Each application must include the AEIF 2026 Proposal and Budget Forms, appropriate SF-424 series forms depending on the applicant type, and a detailed project narrative of no more than five pages. Additional required materials include resumes or CVs of key personnel, letters of support from program partners, and official permission letters if necessary. Organizations applying must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov. However, individual applicants are not required to register in SAM.gov or obtain a UEI. Evaluation of proposals will be based on criteria including alignment with U.S. priorities and Freedom250, project feasibility, alumni involvement, community support, monitoring and evaluation plans, sustainability strategies, and budget justification. Proposals must demonstrate clear objectives, a strong implementation plan, and measurable outcomes. Successful applicants will be notified by November 30, 2026, and funding will be disbursed through SF-270 reimbursement requests. Awardees will be required to comply with federal reporting requirements and may be subject to annual certifications and risk reviews. This program does not allow funding to be directed to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and has specific restrictions regarding the use of prohibited unmanned aircraft systems.

Ensure proposals strongly align with U.S. foreign policy and Freedom250 goals, demonstrate alumni collaboration, and include a clear M&E plan.