![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/flag-and-dos-seal-300x149.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Notice\u00a0of\u00a0Funding\u00a0Opportunity (NOFO)\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
U.S. Mission to ASEAN, Department of State\u00a0<\/p>\n
Opportunity number:\u00a0 PDS-USASEAN-FY26-01\u00a0<\/p>\n
Application deadline:\u00a0 August 30, 2026<\/p>\n
A. Basic Information\u00a0
\n1. Overview
\n
Funding Opportunity Title
U.S.-ASEAN Road to 50: Rising Leaders Forum
Funding Opportunity Number
PDS-USASEAN-FY26-01
Announcement Type
Initial Announcement
Deadline for Applications
August 30, 2026, 11:59 PM Jakarta time
Assistance Listing Number
19.022 \u2013 Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs \u2013 Overseas Grants)
Length of performance period
October 2026 \u2013 October 2027
Number of awards anticipated
One
Award amounts
awards may range from a minimum of $65,000 to a maximum of $85,000 (approximately) pending availability of funds
Total available funding
$85,000 pending availability of funds
Type of Funding
FY26 Smith-Mundt
Anticipated project start date
October 2026
<\/p>\n
Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement.<\/p>\n
Project Performance Period: Proposed projects should reach completion in 12 months or less.<\/p>\n
This notice is subject to availability of funding. The Public Diplomacy Section reserves the right to award less or more than the funds described under circumstances deemed to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated grants officer.<\/p>\n
1.\u00a0\u00a0 Executive Summary<\/p>\n
The U.S. Mission to ASEAN (USASEAN) Public Diplomacy Section\u00a0(PDS)\u00a0announces an open competition for applications to\u00a0develop, organize, and\u00a0oversee the U.S.-ASEAN Road to 50: Rising Leaders Forum. \u00a0This one-day Jakarta workshop will gather approximately 50 rising leaders selected exclusively from the USASEAN alumni networks across Southeast Asia.\u00a0 Celebrating 50 years of partnership, this forum looks ahead to the next 50 years: building an independent, self-sustaining alumni network that collaborates to address regional challenges and advance shared goals.<\/p>\n
Participants will design joint action plans aligned with U.S. priorities, including strengthening the U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP)<\/a>, ASEAN centrality, AI, digital economy, energy security, critical minerals, resilient supply chains, maritime security, and entrepreneurship. \u00a0Through expert panels, strategy sessions, and a joint social media campaign, alumni will turn shared policy goals into practical, cross-border initiatives that mark the U.S.-ASEAN relationships successes over the past 50 years and prepare for even more triumphs over the next 50. \u00a0Please follow all instructions below.<\/p>\n B.\u00a0\u00a0 ELIGIBILITY The following U.S. or foreign organizations are eligible to apply:<\/p>\n \u25cf Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society\/non-governmental organizations For-profit entities, even those that may fall into the categories listed above, are not eligible to apply for this NOFO. Organizations may sub-contract with other entities, but only one, non-profit, non-governmental entity can be the prime recipient of the award. When sub-contracting with other entities, the proposal must clearly define the responsibilities of each entity. For more information on the difference between sub-contract and sub-recipient, please refer to 2 CFR 200.331.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0 Cost Sharing or Matching<\/p>\n Cost sharing or matching is encouraged but not required for this funding opportunity.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0 Other Eligibility Requirements<\/p>\n All organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov as well as a valid registration in SAM.gov. Please see Section E.3 for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.<\/p>\n Applicants may only submit one proposal per organization. If an organization submits more than one proposal, all proposals from that institution will be ineligible for funding under this funding opportunity.<\/p>\n
This opportunity will not support:
\u00a0<\/p>\n C.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION This forum mobilizes emerging professionals from the U.S. exchange alumni to reinforce ties with key rising leaders in the region. The forum will enable participants to share ideas on advancing the CSP, join a 50th anniversary social media campaign, and commit to concrete actions for regional cooperation.<\/p>\n This forum will bring together approximately 50 U.S. exchange alumni (YSEALI, Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN, IVLP U.S.-ASEAN) for a one-day workshop at the ASEAN Secretariat or a designated location in Jakarta, Indonesia, featuring the following virtual and in-person components:<\/p>\n
Official opening remarks, keynote presentations, fireside chats, and panel discussions featuring ASEAN Secretariat personnel and subject matter experts;
Tabletop exercise, strategy sessions, interactive group exercises;
Action plan sprints, guided team\u00a0sessions to develop concrete, self-sustaining projects that support CSP goals;
Pitch sessions where teams pitch their proposals to a judging panel.\u00a0 The winning team will receive an invitation to present their project and outcomes at a U.S.-ASEAN 50th Anniversary distinguished alumni event in 2027.
Social media campaign session to produce content for the 50th anniversary campaign;
Networking sessions to build cross-border professional connections;
<\/p>\n Project Audience(s): The grant recipient will coordinate with the U.S. Mission to ASEAN to recruit approximately 50 U.S. exchange alumni and manage all participant travel and event logistics.<\/p>\n Eligible participants must be YSEALI, Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN, or IVLP alumni from government, business, media, technology, or academia across the region. Candidates should be rising leaders with strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, demonstrated leadership potential, and a professional commitment to advancing shared U.S.-ASEAN priorities.<\/p>\n All participants must be proficient in written and spoken English.<\/p>\n Participants must meet\u00a0all of\u00a0the following criteria:<\/p>\n
Citizenship:\u00a0Be a citizen of one of the\u00a011 ASEAN member\u00a0states.
Project Goal: Advance U.S. strategic interests and strengthen the U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership by convening approximately 50 rising leaders from U.S. Mission to ASEAN alumni network (YSEALI, Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN, or IVLP U.S.-ASEAN) for a one-day policy and strategy forum in Jakarta, Indonesia. The forum will deepen cross-border networks, mobilize alumni behind U.S.-ASEAN CSP priorities, generate actionable policy recommendations, launch a unified 50th anniversary social media campaign, and secure self-sustaining commitments for regional action.<\/p>\n Project Objectives: Key\u00a0Objectives\u00a0and\u00a0Outcomes:<\/p>\n 1. Objective 1 (Learning):<\/p>\n Equip alumni leaders to advance the U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) as per the U.S.-ASEAN Joint Vision Statement (JVS)<\/a> through structured dialogue on strategic regional priorities.<\/p>\n Objective\u00a01 Outcomes:<\/p>\n
Participants produce a set of actionable ideas and recommendations for advancing CSP priorities to be shared with relevant U.S. and ASEAN stakeholders.
<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n 2. Objective 2 (Communications): Amplify the U.S.-ASEAN 50th anniversary through alumni-led digital engagement.<\/p>\n Objective\u00a02 Outcomes:<\/p>\n
Alumni execute a coordinated social media campaign, expanding the reach of strategic 50th anniversary messaging to key regional public and professional audiences.
<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n 3. Objective 3 (Networking): Institutionalize cross-program alumni networks (YSEALI, Fulbright, IVLP) to sustain long-term alignment with U.S. strategic objectives without continuous USG funding.<\/p>\n Objective\u00a03\u00a0Outcomes:<\/p>\n
Participants establish or deepen cross-program connections across YSEALI, Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN, or IVLP U.S.-ASEAN and commit to self-driven action plans that bolster regional cooperation.
<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n 4. Objective 4 (Action Plans): Drive participant teams to design and develop realistic, impact-driven action plans aligned with U.S.-ASEAN CSP goals.<\/p>\n
100% of participant teams will develop relevant, achievable action plans during the forum to advance the U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This includes designing concepts for regional webinar series jointly with the implementing partner to maintain post-event momentum, with USASEAN providing advisory support.
A panel of judges selects a winning action plan proposal\/pitch. The winning team earns the opportunity to attend the U.S.-ASEAN 50th Anniversary distinguished alumni event in 2027 to present their initiative and its impact.
<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0 Substantial Involvement <\/p>\n If selected for a cooperative agreement, the U.S. Mission to ASEAN Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) will serve as the primary coordinating office for this award.\u00a0The grant recipient will work with the PDS team to ensure program activities are successful and that planning and implementation align with U.S., regional, and local priorities.<\/p>\n The Mission anticipates\u00a0awarding a cooperative agreement and will undertake reasonable and programmatically necessary substantial involvement.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n U.S. Embassy Roles and Responsibilities\u00a0<\/p>\n Examples of substantial involvement include but are not limited to:<\/p>\n
Government Approvals \u2013 The U.S. Mission to ASEAN will coordinate the participation of and any necessary approvals for U.S. government agencies and diplomatic missions in Southeast Asia.
Vetting and Selection of Summit Participants, Mentors, Speakers, and Implementation Partners \u2013 The U.S. Mission to ASEAN will review and approve the final selection of\u00a0participants and resource speakers in coordination with other U.S. Embassies and the Department of State, as appropriate.
Recipient Roles and Responsibilities\u00a0<\/p>\n
Participant Recruitment \u2013 Develop and implement a recruitment strategy for U.S. exchange alumni from across the region, including outreach materials, application management, and selection criteria.
\u00a0<\/p>\n D.\u00a0\u00a0 APPLICATION CONTENTS AND FORMAT<\/p>\n Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible.<\/p>\n Content of Application<\/p>\n Please ensure:<\/p>\n
The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity
All documents are in English
All budgets are in U.S. dollars
The authorized applicant has signed where indicated on each of the various, required forms.
<\/p>\n The following documents are required:<\/p>\n 1.\u00a0\u00a0 Mandatory application forms The proposal should contain enough information so that anyone not familiar with it would be able to understand the program design, expected results, and how to measure program success. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below:<\/p>\n
Proposal Summary: A short\u00a0narrative\u00a0(no more than 1 page)\u00a0that outlines the proposed\u00a0project, including project\u00a0objectives,\u00a0anticipated\u00a0outcomes,\u00a0and\u00a0impact.
Introduction to the Organization applying: A description of past and present programs\/operations, showing ability to carry out this program, including information on all\u00a0previous\u00a0grants from the\u00a0State Department\u00a0and\/or other U.S. government agencies.
Problem Statement: A clear,\u00a0concise,\u00a0 evidence-based\u00a0statement of the problem to address, affected populations and geographic relevance, underlying\u00a0drivers\u00a0or contributing factors,\u00a0and why the proposed program is necessary.
Program Methods, Design, Activities, and Deliverables: A description of how the program\u00a0will work toward\u00a0solving\u00a0the stated problem and achieving the stated goal.\u00a0Include a\u00a0theory of change or\u00a0logic\u00a0model\u00a0that\u00a0demonstrates\u00a0causal pathways of how activities logically lead to the desired outcomes.
Proposed Project Schedule and Timeline: The proposed timeline of program activities. Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events.
Key Personnel:\u00a0Names, titles,\u00a0roles,\u00a0and experience\/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. What proportion of their time will they dedicate to this program?
Project Partners: List the names and types of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees (if applicable).
Monitoring and Evaluation Plan: Proposals must include a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). The M&E plan should show how applicants intend to measure and demonstrate progress towards the project\u2019s objectives and goals. The key components to the PMP are:
Monitoring and Evaluation Narrative: In narrative form, applicants should describe how they intend to monitor and evaluate the activities of their award. In addition, the applicant should describe any M&E processes, including key personnel, management structures (where M&E fits into the program\u2019s overall staffing structure), and technologies. The applicant should also provide a brief budget narrative explaining any line-item expenditures for M&E listed in the program budget. If the applicant is a prior grantee, the proposal must explain how the grantee has adapted, improved, or otherwise modified their approach based on lessons learned from previous experience. This narrative may not exceed two pages.
Theory of Change Diagram: Applicants musts submit either a Theory of Change diagram or an If-Then Statement that illustrates how project activities will lead to intended outcomes.
Monitoring and Evaluation Datasheet: Applicants must map their proposed activities, outputs, outcomes, goals, and objectives to each of these items in the NOFO. The datasheet\u2019s purpose is to explicitly illustrate how a project\u2019s activities lead to tangible results (such as additional skills, increased knowledge, or improved attitudes) that ultimately address a PDS objective.
The selected applicant\u2019s M&E PMP is subject to review and approval before the issue of any award under this NOFO. The State Department or its delegate or designee may require that the selected applicant work with U.S. Department of State Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists to ensure the applicant\u2019s M&E PMP achieves a defined minimum level of expertise and meets PDS objectives.
Expenses directly associated with monitoring and evaluation are allowable.
Budget Justification Narrative
Detailed Budget \u2013 Applicants must submit a detailed line-item budget. Applicants should describe line-item expenditures with as much detail as possible. The budget must identify the total requested funding amount, breaking down the amounts under each of the following budget categories: personnel; fringe benefits; travel; equipment; supplies; consultants\/contracts; other direct costs; and indirect costs. See Annex Section I for a description of the types of costs that each category should include. Personnel salaries should include the level of effort and the rate of pay, which should cover the percentage of time each staff member will dedicate to grant-based activities. If an organization is charging an indirect cost rate without a NICRA, it must apply that cost rate to the modified total budget costs (MTDC), refer to 2CFR<\/a>200.1<\/a>. Budgets must be in U.S. dollars and final grant agreements will also be in U.S. dollars.
Budget Justification Narrative \u2013 Applicants must submit a budget justification narrative to accompany the detailed line-item budget. The purpose of the budget justification narrative is to supplement the information provided in the detailed budget spreadsheet by justifying how the budget cost elements are necessary to implement project objectives and accomplish the project goals. The budget justification narrative is a tool to help Embassy staff fully understand the applicant\u2019s budgetary needs . It is an opportunity to describe the requested costs in more detail than the budget template allows. Together, the detailed budget spreadsheet, the budget justification narrative, and the SF-424A should provide a complete financial and qualitative description that supports the proposed project plan and directly relates to the specific project components in the applicant\u2019s proposal.
<\/p>\n Additional Budget Notes:<\/p>\n
Audit Requirements: Please note the audit requirements for Department of State awards in the Standard Terms and Conditions https:\/\/www.state.gov\/m\/a\/ope\/index.htm and 2CFR200<\/a>, Subpart F \u2013 Audit Requirements. The cost of the required audits may be charged either as an allowable direct cost to the award OR included in the organization\u2019s established indirect costs in the award\u2019s detailed budget.
Visa Fees: Include all visa application and related fees in your budget as applicable. Please note DS-2019s for post-funded programs must be submitted directly by the award recipient. If you anticipate your program will include the DS-2019 visa processing, your organization must be a registered Designated Sponsoring Organization. For more information go to: https:\/\/j1visa.state.gov\/sponsors\/become-a-sponsor\/<\/a>
If your application advances in the review process, we may request the following additional items:<\/p>\n
Copies of an organization or program audit within the last two years.
Copies of relevant human resources, finance, or procurement policies.
Copies of other relevant organizational policies or documents that could help the Department determine your organization\u2019s capacity to manage a federal grant award overseas.
Documentation that demonstrates applicant\u2019s plan and\/or policies for safeguarding the personal identifying information (PII) of program participants and beneficiaries. It is the responsibility of the recipient to protect and safeguard PII when collecting, maintaining, using, or disseminating such information
Information to determine what financial controls and standard operating procedures an organization uses to procure goods and services, hire staff, track time and attendance, pay for grant-related travel, and identify other financial transactions that may be necessary for project activities
The U.S. Mission to ASEAN reserve the right at their sole discretion to require any additional programmatic and\/or financial information regarding the proposal.
<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n E.\u00a0\u00a0 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES The aforementioned required application forms are available at the U.S. Mission to ASEAN website, grants.gov, and MyGrants.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Department of State Contacts<\/p>\n If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact: USASEANoutreach@state.gov.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov)<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Required Registration: All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov. A UEI is one of the data elements that Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), mandates for all Federal awards.<\/p>\n Applicants must maintain an active registration while they have a proposal under Department review, and they must continue to keep the registration active for the entire duration of the period of performance of any Federal award that results from this NOFO.<\/p>\n The Uniform Guidance, or 2 CFR Part 200, also requires that subrecipients obtain a UEI. Please note the that subrecipients do not need to have a UEI at the time of application, but they must have a UEI before they are able to receive any award.<\/p>\n \u00a0Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from 4-8 weeks. Please register as early as possible.<\/p>\n
Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.
Organizations based outside of the United States and that do not pay employees within the United States do not need an EIN from the IRS but do need a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.
Organizations based outside of the United States that do not intend to apply for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) awards are no longer required to have a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code to apply for non-DoD foreign assistance funding opportunities. If an applicant organization is mid-registration and wishes to remove an NCAGE code from their SAM.gov registration, the applicant should submit a help desk ticket (\u201cincident\u201d)<\/a> with the Federal Service Desk (FSD) online at fsd.gov<\/a> using the following language: \u201cI do not intend to seek financial assistance from the Department of Defense. I do not wish to obtain an NCAGE code. I understand that I will need to re-submit my registration after this incident is resolved in order to activate my registration.\u201d
<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Organizations based outside of the United States and that DO NOT plan to do business with the DoD should follow the below instructions:<\/p>\n
Step 1: Proceed to SAM.gov to obtain a UEI and complete the SAM.gov registration process. Entities with a SAM.gov registration must renew it annually.
<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Exemptions<\/p>\n The Department may grant an exemption from the UEI and SAM.gov registration requirements on a case-by-case basis. See 2 CFR 25.110<\/a> for a full list of exemptions.<\/p>\n Organizations requesting exemption from UEI or SAM.gov requirements must email a justification for their request to the NOFO point of contact at least two weeks prior to the application deadline. The warranted Grants Officer must approve any SAM.gov exemption before the Department can deem the application eligible for review.<\/p>\n Please note: Applicants with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) ineligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235), \u201cDebarment and Suspension.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Submission Dates and Times<\/p>\n Submission Deadline: Applicants must submit their application by Sunday, August 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Jakarta time, per Grants.gov timestamp. This deadline is firm and is not a rolling deadline. Applicants that fail to meet this deadline will be ineligible for funding.<\/p>\n Submission Method:\u00a0Submit all application materials directly to the following email address: USASEANoutreach@state.gov. Applicants opting to submit applications via email to USASEANoutreach@state.gov must include the Funding Opportunity Title and Funding Opportunity Number in the subject line of the email.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n 5.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Funding Restrictions If any of the information in your application is proprietary, please note in the footer of the appropriate pages that the information is Confidential \u2013 Proprietary. Applicants should also note what parts of the application, program, concept, etc. are under copyright(s), trademark(s), or any other intellectual property right(s) and provide copies of the relevant documentation to support these copyrights.<\/p>\n Applicants must acquire all required registrations and rights in the United States and Southeast Asia. Applicants must fully comply with all intellectual property considerations and rights in the United States and Southeast Asia.<\/p>\n Any sub-recipient organization must also meet all the U.S. and Southeast Asian requirements described above.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n F.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION We will evaluate and rate each application based on the evaluation criteria below.<\/p>\n
Program Idea Quality and Feasibility \u2013 30 points: The program idea is innovative, well developed, and describes in detail project activities and implementation. The proposals demonstrate originality and outline clear, achievable objectives that directly align with NOFO priorities and requirements. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline and clearly defines an appropriate project scope. Finally, the proposal aligns with the following:
The project clearly demonstrates a direct contribution to current U.S. foreign policy priorities.
The project will positively impact America\u2019s reputation among foreign government partners.
The project will positively impact America\u2019s reputation among foreign publics.
The proposal does not include any activities contrary to the following Executive Orders:
\u00a0<\/p>\n
Indirect Costs
<\/p>\n If two or more applications receive equivalent scores per the evaluation criteria in this NOFO, the review panel will give preference to the applicant with the lower indirect cost rate, consistent with Executive Order 14332, Section 4(b)(iii). The panel will apply this preference only as a tie-breaking mechanism; it does not supersede the primary evaluation criteria.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Review and Selection Process \u00a0<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0 \u00a0 Risk Review The Grants Officer will designate awardees as high risk based on the above risk factors and will hold them to special award conditions. At a minimum, High Risk designated recipients and\/or projects must submit monthly narrative reports and\/or detailed quarterly financial reports. Upon request, the Grants Officer or Grants Officer Representative may also require that recipients provide electronic copies of receipts or other supporting documentation (e.g., timesheets, travel documents) for costs incurred. The Grants Officer may withhold 10% of the award amount until they have reviewed and approved final reports. The Grants Officer may require that recipient pay all grant-supported salaries via electronic funds transfer. The Grants Officer may also include other special award conditions at the discretion of the Department of State as appropriate.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n G.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 AWARD NOTICES<\/p>\n The Grants Officer will write, sign, award, and administer the award or cooperative agreement. The Grants Officer will provide the award agreement \u2013 the authorizing document \u2013 to the recipient for review and countersignature. The recipient may only begin incurring project expenses on the start date shown on the award document signed by the Grants Officer. If a proposal is selected for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional future funding. Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of performance is at the discretion of the Department of State.<\/p>\n Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Payment Method:<\/p>\n Recipients must request payments by completing form SF-270 \u2013 Request for Advance or Reimbursement and submitting the form to the Grants Officer and Grants Officer Representative.<\/p>\n Recipients may not draw down funds without the affirmative authorization of the Department of State. In addition, recipients must submit, with each SF-270 payment request, a detailed explanation justifying the request.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n H.\u00a0\u00a0 POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award to ensure that they will be able to comply. These include:<\/p>\n In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget\u2019s guidance in 2 CFR Part 200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department of State will review and consider applications for funding, as applicable to specific programs, pursuant to this notice of funding opportunity in accordance with the following:<\/p>\n
Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations<\/a> (2 CFR), as updated in the Federal Register\u2019s 89 FR 30046 on April 22, 2024, particularly on:
Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on program objectives through an impartial process of evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR Part 200.205),
Promoting freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O. 13864) (\u00a7\u00a7 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341),
Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR Part 200.322), and
Terminating agreements pursuant to the U.S. Department of State Standard Terms and Conditions, including, to the greatest extent authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2 CFR Part 200.340). For the avoidance of doubt, the Department has sole discretion over the determination that an award no longer effectuates program goals or agency priorities, and this provision permits awards to be terminated at the Department\u2019s convenience, including when it determines that the award no longer advances the national interest.
<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Reporting<\/p>\n Reporting Requirements: Recipients must submit financial reports and program reports. The award document will specify what reports and how often recipients must submit them. Note: most recipients must submit quarterly program progress and financial reports throughout the project period. The quarterly progress report must include updated M&E data for that quarter. Progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final certified programmatic and financial reports are due 120 days after the close of the project period.<\/p>\n Awardees must submit all reports electronically.<\/p>\n The Awardee must annually submit form SF428 to the U.S. Mission to ASEAN with an inventory of all U.S.-government-provided equipment.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n
Branding and Marking
<\/p>\n The Department of State, its programs, and U.S. Government funding and assistance should be easily identifiable to the Department\u2019s global audiences.<\/p>\n Recipients of federal assistance awards must follow the Guidance for Contracts and Grants \u2013 U.S. Department of State Brand System<\/a>. The U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual outlines branding exceptions in 10 FAM 416, Policy Exceptions<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n I.\u00a0\u00a0 OTHER INFORMATION<\/p>\n Guidelines for Budget Justification<\/p>\n Personnel and Fringe Benefits: Describe the wages, salaries, and benefits of temporary or permanent staff who will be working directly for the applicant on the program, and the percentage of their time they will spend on the program.<\/p>\n Travel: Estimate travel and per diem costs for this program, program staff, consultants or speakers, and participants\/beneficiaries. If the program involves international travel, include a brief statement of justification for that travel.<\/p>\n Equipment: Describe any machinery, furniture, or other personal property necessary for the program which has a useful life of more than one year (or a life longer than the duration of the program) and costs at least $10,000 per unit.<\/p>\n Supplies: List and describe all the items and materials, including any computer devices, necessary for the program. If an item costs more than $10,000 per unit, then put it in the budget under Equipment.<\/p>\n Contractual: Describe goods and services that the applicant plans to acquire through a contract with a vendor. Also describe any sub-awards to non-profit partners that will help carry out program activities.<\/p>\n Other Direct Costs: Describe other costs directly associated with the program that do not fit in the other categories, for example, shipping costs for materials and equipment or applicable taxes. Itemize and explain all \u201cOther\u201d or \u201cMiscellaneous\u201d expenses.<\/p>\n Indirect Costs: These are costs not directly linked to program activities, such as overhead costs to keep the organization operating. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, attach a copy of your latest NICRA. Organizations that have never had a NICRA may request indirect costs of 15% of Modified Total Direct Costs (MTDC) as defined in 2 CFR 200.1.<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cCost Sharing\u201d refers to contributions from the organization or other entities other than the U.S. Mission or Embassy. It also includes in-kind contributions such as volunteers\u2019 time and donated venues.<\/p>\n Alcoholic Beverages: Award funds may not cover or pay for alcoholic beverages or other entertainment-related expenses.<\/p>\n STEP Enrollment<\/p>\n U.S. citizens who travel to Cambodia should enroll in the Department of State\u2019s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at: https:\/\/step.state.gov\/step\/<\/a>. Enrollment enables citizens to receive security-related messages from the Embassy and it helps the Embassy locate you in an emergency. The Embassy also recommends that all travelers review the\u00a0State Department\u2019s travel website at travel.state.gov<\/a>\u00a0<\/a>for Travel Warnings<\/a>,\u00a0Travel Alerts, Cambodia-Specific Information.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Notice\u00a0of\u00a0Funding\u00a0Opportunity (NOFO)\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 U.S. Mission to ASEAN, Department of State\u00a0 Opportunity number:\u00a0 PDS-USASEAN-FY26-01\u00a0 Application deadline:\u00a0 August 30, 2026…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":683689,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[72627,23,10095,3,297430,21,19,22,20,25,24],"class_list":["post-786595","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-united-states","tag-alumni","tag-america","tag-grant","tag-news","tag-nofo","tag-united-states","tag-united-states-of-america","tag-unitedstates","tag-unitedstatesofamerica","tag-us","tag-usa"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/786595","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=786595"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/786595\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/683689"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=786595"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=786595"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=786595"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\n1.\u00a0\u00a0 Eligible Applicants<\/p>\n
\u25cf Public and private educational institutions
\u25cf Individuals
\u25cf Public International Organizations and Governmental institutions<\/p>\n
\n
Projects relating to partisan political activity;
Charitable or development activities; including direct social services such as medical, psychological, and\/or humanitarian support
Construction projects;
Projects that support specific religious activities;
Fund-raising campaigns;
Lobbying for specific legislation or programs
Scientific research or surveys;
Commercial projects;
Projects intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization;
Projects that duplicate existing projects;
Illegal activities
<\/p>\n
\n1.\u00a0\u00a0 Project Background, Goals, and Objectives<\/p>\n
\n
Residency:\u00a0Reside\u00a0in one of the\u00a0ASEAN\u00a0member\u00a0states\u00a0at the time of\u00a0application and when\u00a0the workshop\u00a0takes place.
\n
Professional Experience: Possess relevant professional experience in strategic sectors, including government, business, media, technology, or academia.
\n
Strategic & Policy Commitment: Demonstrate a track record of driving regional policy solutions and cross-sector collaboration. Candidates must show clear commitment to advancing shared U.S.-ASEAN objectives and priorities through practical, self-driven, and scalable initiatives.
\n
\u2022 U.S.-ASEAN 50th Anniversary Communications Plan: Agree to participate in a coordinated 50th-anniversary digital outreach campaign, including creating and sharing social media content on their personal or professional platforms to amplify U.S.-ASEAN strategic messaging.
<\/p>\n
\n
Program Materials \u2013 U.S. Mission to ASEAN will review and approve all virtual and in-person program materials, including but not limited to a communications plan that outlines a media strategy that includes traditional and social media elements for public announcements, press releases, social media kits, and website design.
\n
Sub-Awards and Action Plans \u2013 The U.S. Mission to ASEAN will review and approve any sub-awards not included in the original proposal, including but not limited to the selection of action plans whether or not they receive further U.S. Government funding
\n
Lodging \u2013 The U.S. Mission to ASEAN will review and approve proposed lodging based on single occupancy for safety and suitability.
<\/p>\n
\n
Communications and Visibility\u00a0\u2013 Develop outreach materials, branding, documentation, and social media content aligned with U.S. government public\u00a0diplomacy guidelines.
\n
Curriculum Development \u2013 Design a comprehensive curriculum for the plenary and relevant thematic working groups, including learning\u00a0objectives, session sequencing, and expected outputs. Develop a comprehensive calendar of milestones before, during,\u00a0and after the workshop.
\n
Field Exposure Activity\u00a0\u2013 Design and coordinate relevant institutional visits to reinforce workshop themes, should there be some budget for an additional site visit day.
\n
Participant Support\u00a0\u2013 Provide pre\u2011departure information, orientation materials, personal safety protocols, and on\u2011site support throughout the workshop.
\n
Expert\/Speaker Engagement\u00a0\u2013 Identify, vet, and manage speakers, facilitators, and resource\u00a0personnel\u00a0for all thematic areas and the ASEAN Secretariat. Support selected experts with travel, visas (as applicable), honoraria, accommodations, and\u00a0required\u00a0program-related rentals or services, including transportation.
\n
Event Management \u2013 Manage all event\u00a0logistics\u00a0including securing the ASEAN Secretariat as the main venue of the forum and\u00a0procure\u00a0items\u00a0and rentals\u00a0necessary for program\u00a0events.
\n
Press and Social Media Engagement\u00a0\u2013 Develop and execute a comprehensive media strategy that includes drafting press releases, managing media inquiries, and coordinating on-site interviews. Produce high-quality digital content compliant with existing State Department guidelines and as personnel from the U.S. Mission to ASEAN indicate for real-time social media posting and amplification,\u00a0including video highlights and participant features,\u00a0to broaden the forum\u2019s reach and showcase\u00a0to Southeast Asian publics U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), ASEAN centrality, and regional U.S. priorities.
\n
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)\u00a0\u2013 Design and implement an M&E plan that includes pre and post event\u00a0assessments, participant feedback tools, outcome tracking, and analysis of\u00a0material\u00a0learning\u00a0and retention. The recipient\u00a0must devote at least 5 percent to M&E.
\n
Final Reporting \u2013 Produce a comprehensive final report summarizing activities, outputs, participant demographics, M&E findings, challenges, and recommendations for future programming.
<\/p>\n
\n
SF-424 <\/a>(Application for Federal Assistance \u2013 for organizations) or SF-424-I<\/a> (Application for Federal Assistance \u2014 for individuals)
SF-424A<\/a> (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs)
SF-424B<\/a> (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) (Note: individuals, organizations exempt from registration, and organizations not required to register in SAM.gov must submit form SF-424B. All others are exempt).
\n2.\u00a0\u00a0 Proposal (10 pages maximum)<\/p>\n
\n3.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Attachments
\n
Key Personnel Resumes: Include a one-page r\u00e9sum\u00e9 for each proposed key staff person, such as the Project Director and Finance Officer, as well as for any speakers or trainers (if applicable). If the applicant has not identified an individual for this position, they may submit a one-page position description outlining the required qualifications and skills in lieu of a r\u00e9sum\u00e9.
Letters of support from program partners: Include letters of support for subrecipients or other partners. Each letter must identify the type of relationship (formal or informal), the roles and responsibilities of each partner in relation to the proposed project activities, and the expected results of the partnership. Each letter may not exceed one page in length.
Indirect Costs: If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, include your latest NICRA in the application submission.
Proof of Non-profit Status: Include documentation demonstrating your organization\u2019s non-profit status (e.g., U.S.-based organizations must submit a copy of their 501(c)(3) Internal Revenue Service determination letter, and non-U.S. organizations must provide evidence of government-issued non-profit status).
Proof of Registration: Include a copy of your organization\u2019s registration with the proposal application. U.S.-based organizations must submit a copy of their IRS determination letter. Organizations based in other countries must submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government organization.
<\/p>\n
\n1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Address to Request Application Package<\/p>\n
\n
Funding Restrictions for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA): No funds resulting from this Notice of Funding Opportunity are available for sub-awards, direct financial support, or otherwise to provide any payment or transfer to United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
Certification Regarding Compliance with Applicable Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws If the place of performance or delivery of any award from this NOFO will be within the United States, applicants must certify the following at the time of award:
Applicant is in compliance in all respects with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws material to the government\u2019s payment decisions for purposes of section 3729(b)(4) of title 31, United States Code, and
Applicant does not operate any programs promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion that violate any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws. A program promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion means a program whose purpose is to promote preferences based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, such as in training or hiring.
Certification Regarding Compliance with 20 U.S.C. 1011f and any other applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements: IHEs must certify the following at the time of award, and include this certification requirement in any subaward agreements to IHEs:
Its compliance in all respects with section 1011f of title 20, United States Code, and any other applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements is material for purposes of section 3729 of title 31, United States Code, and for receipt of appropriate Federal grant funds.
Applicants seeking clarification on the reporting requirement must review the U.S. Department of Education\u2019s Frequently Asked Questions<\/a> resource.
Certification of Trafficking in Persons Compliance and Compliance Plan: Applicants must certify the following at the time of award for awards where the estimated value of services performed outside the United States exceeds $500,000:
To the best of the Recipient\u2019s knowledge, neither the Recipient nor any subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor of the Recipient or any agent of the recipient or of such a subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor, engage in any of the activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a);
The recipient has implemented a Trafficking in Persons compliance plan to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175(a) and is compliant with this plan; and the compliance plan must follow the minimum requirements described in 2 CFR 175(b)(5).
That the Recipient has and will implement procedures to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a) and to monitor, detect, and terminate any subrecipient, contractor, subcontractor, or employee of the recipient engaging in these activities.
Recipients do not need to submit a copy of the plan. However, they must provide it to the Grants Officer upon request, and as appropriate, must post the useful and relevant contents of the plan or related materials on the website and at the workplace. Recipients must re-certify on an annual basis for the entire award period of performance.
Prohibition of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). If your project involves the purchase or use of an UAS, see this link<\/a> for requirements and information you must include in your application.
Pre-Award Costs: Pre-award costs are generally not allowable under this NOFO unless approved in advance by the Grants Officer and justified in the proposal.
Construction: Any award resulting from this NOFO will not allow for construction activities or costs.
Direct Social Services: Costs that cover and provide direct social services, such as welfare, charity, health, or economic relief, are unallowable. Medical assistance, such as costs to include medical professionals, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists to participate in the project activities are not allowable.
\n6.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Other Submission Requirements: Copyrights and Proprietary Information<\/p>\n
\n1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Review Criteria<\/p>\n
\n
Organizational Capacity and Previous Grant Performance \u2013 25 points:
The project proposal demonstrates that the organization has sufficient expertise, skills, and human resources to implement the project, including internal controls to manage federal funds. If the applicant proposes sub-awards, they must demonstrate experience managing sub-awards.
The organization demonstrates a clear understanding of the underlying issue the project will address.
The organization demonstrates capacity for successful planning and responsible fiscal management, including maintaining a financial management system, a bank account, and \u2013 if applicable \u2013 satisfactory audit findings.
Applicants who previously received grant funds have complied with all applicable rules and regulations, including the Award Provisions and Standard Terms and Conditions.
Where the applicant describes partners, they detail each partner\u2019s respective role and provide curriculum vitae (CV) for persons responsible for project and financial administration. Proposed personnel, institutional resources, and partners are adequate and appropriate.
\n
Project Planning\/Ability to Achieve Objectives \u2013 20 points: The applicant develops a thorough project plan with sufficient detail on activity implementation. The proposal specifies target audiences, participant recruitment, and geographic areas of implementation. The proposal outlines clear, achievable objectives. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline. The applicant clearly defines an appropriate project scope.
\n
Budget \u2013 10 points: The applicant provides a sufficiently detailed budget and narrative justification. The budget demonstrates that the organization devoted sufficient time to accurately determine project expenses rather than provide rough estimates. The proposed activities and anticipated results justify the associated costs. The proposed results and outcomes justify the project\u2019s total cost. Budget items are reasonable, allowable, and allocable.
Monitoring and Evaluation \u2013 10 points: The project proposal includes an M&E plan. The applicant demonstrates ability to measure program success against key indicators and provides milestones to indicate progress toward proposal goals and objectives. The proposal includes output and outcome indicators and shows how and when those will be measured. Plans for projects that receive funding will finalize during the negotiation phase, and monitoring plans may be subject to periodic updates throughout the life of the project.
Sustainability \u2013 5 points: The project proposal clearly describes how it will ensure maximum sustainability or advancement of project goals after the end of project activity.
<\/p>\n
\n
Acknowledgement of receipt. Applicants will receive acknowledgment of receipt of their proposal.
Review. All submissions must meet technical eligibility requirements. If a submission is missing any of the required forms\/documents in Section D. Application Contents and Format<\/a>, it will be ineligible for consideration. A technical review panel will review eligible proposals based upon the criteria in this NOFO.
Follow up notification. Applicants will generally receive notification of the review panel results within 120 days of the NOFO deadline.
<\/p>\n
\n
Under the merit review as required by 2 CFR 200.206, prior to making a Federal Award the Department will review and consider the following risk factors:
\n
Financial stability
Management systems and standards
History of performance
Audit reports and findings
Ability to effectively implement project requirements
High Risk Designation
<\/p>\n
\n1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Administrative and National Policy Requirements<\/p>\n