FY 2026 Leaders Lead On-Demand

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY 2026 Leaders Lead On-Demand (LLOD) program, a cooperative agreement offering approximately $1,000,000 for one award. The program develops customized two-way exchange projects for emerging leaders and mid-level professionals, fostering global networks. Eligible applicants are U.S. not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with at least four years of international exchange experience. The LLOD program aims to address foreign policy priorities, build partnerships, and enhance leadership skills through four to six exchange projects for about 75 participants (55 foreign, 20 U.S.). Proposals must include a detailed program plan, budget, and a performance monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plan aligned with ECA’s MODE Framework. Applications are due by May 5, 2026, and must be submitted through Grants.gov, requiring prior SAM.gov and MyGrants registration.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY 2026 Leaders Lead On-Demand (LLOD) program, a cooperative agreement to develop customized, two-way exchange projects for emerging leaders and mid-level professionals. The program aims to build self-sustaining global networks and respond to foreign policy priorities. A single award of approximately $1,000,000 will be granted for 24 to 30 months, supporting four to six projects with about 75 participants (55 foreign, 20 U.S.). Eligible applicants are U.S. not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with at least four years of international exchange experience. Proposals must include a detailed program plan, budget, and a Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) plan aligned with ECA's MODE Framework. The State Department will have substantial involvement in project approvals and participant selection. Applications are due by May 5, 2026, and must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov, requiring prior registration in SAM.gov and MyGrants.

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY 2026 Leaders Lead On-Demand (LLOD) program, a cooperative agreement with an anticipated award of $1,000,000. This program supports customized, two-way exchange projects for emerging leaders and mid-level professionals from government, business, and civil society, aiming to build self-sustaining global networks. Eligible applicants are U.S. not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with at least four years of international exchange experience. The recipient will design and implement four to six exchange projects, each involving approximately 75 participants (55 foreign, 20 U.S.), with segments in the U.S. and overseas. Key responsibilities include participant recruitment, logistical arrangements, visa support, and comprehensive performance monitoring using the MODE Framework. Proposals must include a detailed program plan, budget, and demonstrate strong institutional capacity, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to various federal regulations and reporting requirements. The deadline for applications is May 5, 2026.