The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) 2025 Tunis grant opportunity is issued by the NEA Bureau at the U.S. Embassy in Tunis under the U.S. Department of State. This initiative is part of the Department of State’s Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and aims to empower women entrepreneurs in Tunisia, specifically in the Jendouba and Kairouan regions. The AWE program was launched in 2019 and supports women by providing foundational and advanced business training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to foster small business growth and community impact.

This funding opportunity seeks proposals from organizations or eligible individuals to implement a 12-month hybrid program. The program will integrate U.S.-based online platforms—DreamBuilder and the Najafi 100 Million Learners Global Initiative—with localized in-person training, mentorship, and networking. DreamBuilder, available in English and Spanish, introduces core business skills, while Najafi 100 Million Learners offers advanced curriculum in more than 40 languages, including Arabic and French. The content will be adapted and translated into Arabic to meet the specific needs of two cohorts: one focused on the farming sector in Jendouba and another on handicrafts in Kairouan.

Eligibility is limited to not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions (both public and private), public international organizations, governmental institutions, and Tunisian alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. For-profit organizations and individuals are not eligible to apply. However, U.S. and international alumni may participate as partners but are not eligible for direct funding. All applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and be registered on SAM.gov prior to award acceptance.

Proposals are expected to include a comprehensive application packet comprising forms SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B (if applicable), a detailed budget and narrative, a four-page project proposal, resumes of key personnel, and letters of support from partners. Applications must be submitted in English, with budgets in U.S. dollars, and are due by May 31, 2025, at 23:59 Tunisian local time. Submissions should be sent via email to PASTunisSmallGrants@state.gov.

Proposals will be reviewed based on program quality, alumni involvement, feasibility, budget accuracy, monitoring and evaluation plans, sustainability, and organizational capacity. Only one award is expected, with a funding range of $25,000 to $35,000 and total funding capped at $35,000. Successful applicants will be notified post-review, with project start dates anticipated in August 2025.

Substantial involvement from the Public Diplomacy bureau at the U.S. Embassy Tunis is expected, particularly in approving key programmatic decisions and ensuring alignment with program goals. Additional post-award requirements include compliance with applicable federal regulations and submission of regular progress and financial reports, as specified in the award documentation.