The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) has issued a Request for Statements of Interest (RSOI) for FY 2024 China Programs. This opportunity invites organizations to propose initiatives aimed at addressing human rights abuses and promoting democratic norms and values in the People’s Republic of China (PRC). DRL encourages interested parties to submit up to two Statements of Interest (SOIs) for programs under two categories: Freedom of Expression and Access to Information, and Human Rights, Rule of Law, and Labor Rights. This is a two-step process where selected SOIs will lead to invitations for full proposals, which will undergo further evaluation for funding consideration.

Programs under the Freedom of Expression category should address objectives such as countering censorship and propaganda, supporting independent journalism, enabling access to information, and promoting government accountability. Programs may also aim to document and counter the use of advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, in censorship and repression. In the Human Rights category, objectives include empowering human rights defenders, promoting labor rights, increasing civic engagement, addressing forced labor, and advocating for government transparency. Programs should be sustainable and have a broad impact beyond individual participants.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based and foreign non-profit organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, public international organizations, and for-profit entities. Applicants must demonstrate experience managing similar projects and are encouraged to form consortia with thematic or local partners. SOIs should not include humanitarian aid, academic research, or activities targeting a single demographic without cross-community coordination. Programs must be consistent with DRL’s anti-discrimination and anti-terrorism policies and comply with U.S. laws, including the Leahy Law.

Complete SOIs must include a signed SF-424 form and a three-page program statement outlining the organization’s name, funding amount requested, target countries, program length, objectives, and expected results. Applicants must adhere to formatting requirements and submit electronically via MyGrants or Grants.gov by January 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. Proposals requesting less than $500,000 or more than $1,500,000 may be deemed ineligible. SOIs must provide a theory of change, feasibility analysis, and mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation.

DRL will evaluate SOIs based on program quality, institutional capacity, program planning, and alignment with DRL’s objectives. Priority will be given to innovative, impactful programs addressing barriers to equal participation and promoting inclusivity. Selected applicants will be invited to submit full proposals, with funding decisions subject to availability and DRL’s Front Office approval.

Questions regarding the RSOI can be directed to DRLChinaProgramInfo@state.gov. Technical assistance for MyGrants and Grants.gov is available through their respective help desks. Full details and resources, including submission instructions, are available on the DRL website. This solicitation does not guarantee funding and is subject to compliance with applicable U.S. laws and regulations.