The U.S. Embassy announces an open competition for assistance awards through this Notice for one or a series of programs to support the Moldovan media sector. The objective of the project is to strengthen and develop the local production capacity of Moldovan media in the interests of providing a plurality of views, supporting editorial independence, and increasing the quality of domestically produced media in Moldova. It also aims to improve Moldovanss ability to critically assess mass media and social media, and to support qualified organizations that can increase the level of professionalism of Moldovan journalists and media outlets. Proposals may cover all types of media tools and channels social interaction and social media as well as mass media. Proposals are free to target any audience within Moldova, but should not be targeted at the whole of Moldova. Successful proposals will identify and target a specific subset of the population and should clearly explain why targeting that demographic group is important. The Embassy invites applicants to identify and extend existing good practices and to include in their proposals a discussion of how the proposal does not duplicate existing activities undertaken by other entities. The submission of the Statement of Interest (SoI) is the first step in a two-step process. Applicants must first submit a concise statement of interest designed to clearly communicate program idea and objectives using the Microsoft Forms link provided later in this document. This is not a full proposal. The purpose of the SOI process is to allow applicants to submit program ideas for evaluation prior to requiring the development of a full proposal application. Upon a merit review of eligible SOIs, selected applicants will be invited to expand on their program idea(s) by submitting a full proposal application. Full proposals will go through a second merit review before final funding decision are made. Program Objectives: This proposal plans to fund a diverse range of programs. Support independent news and information media outlets (broadcast, online, or print) that are committed to factual, objective and thorough reporting on issues relevant to Moldovas economic and political development; Develop the institutional capacity, competitiveness, and sustainability of independent media outlets; Support innovative approaches to using technology, including alternative delivery platforms, to more effectively inform Moldovan audiences on issues relevant to Moldovas economic and political development; Upgrade media outlets online presences, including improved security and resilience against hacking and other threats; Develop and strengthen media outlets on the regional and local level in the Republic of Moldova.