U.S. Embassy Sofia PDS Annual Program Statement

PDS Sofia invites proposals for programs that strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and Bulgaria through cultural and exchange programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. This notice is subject to availability of funding. Examples of PDS Small Grants Program programs include, but are not limited to · Academic and professional lectures, seminars, and speaker programs; · Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances, and exhibitions; · Cultural heritage conservation and preservation programs; · Professional and academic exchanges and programs; · Capacity building activities for civil society and media organizations Priority Program Areas: · Strengthen governance, transparency, and rule of law to foster democratic norms, economic development, and security stability. · Build resilience among the Bulgarian public against disinformation. · Promote activities that highlight the social and cultural connections between the United States and Bulgaria. · Increase cultural understanding and connectivity between the people of Bulgaria and North Macedonia. · Protect and preserve Bulgarian cultural heritage. · Advance the socioeconomic inclusion of historically underserved and/or marginalized communities, including women, Roma and other minority groups, LGBTI individuals, migrant populations, and disadvantaged youth. · Promote education and skills-building in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and environmental / clean energy sectors.