Public Diplomacy Bujumbura Small Grants Program

The U.S. Department of State’s Embassy in Bujumbura, Burundi, has announced a funding opportunity under the Public Diplomacy Bujumbura Small Grants Program (Opportunity Number: PDS-BUJUMBURA-FY26-02). This Annual Program Statement (APS) outlines a competitive grant process to support U.S. foreign policy goals and foster people-to-people ties, specifically aligning with the "Freedom250" initiative. With an application deadline of August 14, 2026, the program anticipates issuing up to two awards ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, drawn from a total pool of $25,000 in FY26 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds. The performance period for selected projects is twelve months or less, starting in October 2026. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, civil society groups, educational institutions, public international organizations, and government entities. The program targets youth and young professionals aged 15–35, using sports diplomacy—specifically basketball—to showcase American leadership during the "Decade of Sport" (2024–2034). Proposals must address one of three core goals: capitalizing on the Decade of Sport, promoting health and well-being (including physical and mental health), or strengthening people-to-people connections. Eligible organizations must possess a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active SAM.gov registration. Applications must be submitted electronically to the Burundi Public Diplomacy inbox and will be evaluated based on program quality, feasibility, organizational capacity, budget accuracy, monitoring and evaluation plans, and long-term sustainability.