U.S.-Africa Strategic Investment Program

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of African Affairs (AF), Office of Assistance has issued an Annual Program Statement (APS) for the U.S.-Africa Strategic Investment Program (Opportunity Number: DFOP0019410). Backed by an estimated $500 million in FY 2026 National Security Investment Program funding, this initiative aims to award approximately 10 grants or cooperative agreements ranging from $5 million to $50 million. The program's primary objective is to advance America’s national interests by promoting market-based, private sector-led growth in sub-Saharan Africa. Project proposals must align with one of two strategic focus areas: 1. **Critical Minerals Investment:** Strengthening enabling environments, regulatory frameworks, and geological data access to de-risk and catalyze mineral development investments from U.S. and U.S.-aligned companies. 2. **Commercial Diplomacy Acceleration:** Reducing market barriers and modernizing systems across key sectors—such as telecommunications, energy, and digital technology—to enhance U.S. commercial competitiveness and partner-nation self-reliance. Eligible applicants include U.S. and U.S.-aligned for-profit and non-profit organizations, as well as public international organizations. The application process begins with a mandatory two-page Statement of Interest (SOI), which is evaluated on a rolling basis across four quarterly submission windows. Successful SOI applicants will be invited to participate in a collaborative, consultative program design phase or proceed directly to submit a full Phase 2 proposal. Projects must have a performance period of 12 to 36 months, with an anticipated start date no later than October 1, 2027.