Public Diplomacy Grants Program

The Public Diplomacy Grants Program supports initiatives that promote educational and cultural engagement and foster mutual understanding between the United States and Iraq. Grants are awarded for projects designed to further the development of Iraq’s future leaders, build the capacity of Iraqi institutions, and promote awareness and understanding of shared U.S. and Iraqi values. Proposals are accepted at any time; applicants may be individuals or representatives of civil society and non-governmental organizations, cultural organizations, or research and academic institutions. Priority will be given to Iraqi applicants, although the program is open to U.S.-based not-for-profit organizations and institutions of higher education. Grant awards are subject to the availability of funds and generally will not exceed $100,000; most will be smaller. Requests for support for individual or group research projects or to help defray the costs of study abroad will not be considered. Possible topics include, but are not limited to:• Empowering Women and Youth• Encouraging Environmental Awareness• Promoting Civic Engagement and Strengthening Civil Society• Fostering Cultural Ties• Enhancing Professionalism in the MediaApplications will be evaluated based on the proposed topic, clearly formulated goals, the target group, and the capacity of the individual or organization to carry out the proposed activity. Cost-sharing and the inclusion of alumni of U.S. Department of State exchange programs in developing and implementing grant activity are encouraged. Applications should explain clearly any other likely sources of funding for the project. Examples of program activity include, but are not limited to:• Public outreach campaigns• Training programs• Seminars, workshops, or roundtable discussions• Cultural activities related to film, music, or literature.Proposals that support social welfare projects, partisan or political party activity, religious activity, or trade or other commercial activity will not be considered.