The U.S. Embassy in Lome, Togo, has issued its 2025 Annual Program Statement (APS), inviting applications for small grants that strengthen U.S.-Togo cultural ties through public diplomacy. This APS focuses on cultural and exchange initiatives that promote shared values, foster bilateral cooperation, and highlight an American cultural element, such as collaboration with a U.S. expert or institution. Priority program areas include peace and security, democratic institutions, economic growth, and development opportunities, particularly projects that promote peace, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, education, and the empowerment of underrepresented groups like women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

Eligible applicants for this grant include nonprofit organizations, civil society groups, think tanks, educational institutions, individuals, and governmental institutions. Applications from private for-profit entities are not eligible. Cost-sharing is encouraged but not required. Award amounts range from $10,000 to $25,000, with a total of $60,000 available for all awards, contingent on funding availability. Proposed projects should span 3 to 12 months, with the possibility of continuation grants based on project performance and funding. Applications must be submitted by July 31, 2025, though proposals are reviewed periodically throughout the year based on specific submission windows.

Applications should include a detailed proposal of up to four pages covering project goals, objectives, activities, schedule, personnel, and an evaluation plan to measure success. Required documents include the SF-424 forms, a summary page, budget justification narrative, resumes for key personnel, and any necessary support letters. Budgets must be in U.S. dollars, formatted per the APS guidelines, and should include a clear justification for each expense category. All entities (except individuals) must also have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and be registered in SAM.gov.

Review criteria will assess the quality and feasibility of the proposed program, organizational capacity, planning effectiveness, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation strategy, sustainability, and support for equity and underserved communities. Applications are evaluated by a review panel based on these criteria, and selected projects will be notified through a formal Grant Award Notification.

Grantees will be required to submit regular financial and program reports, comply with federal regulations, and ensure the project aligns with Department of State priorities, including equity and inclusion considerations. Reporting obligations also extend to maintaining separate records for tracking and reporting as mandated by the Foreign Assistance Data Review (FADR). This APS reflects the Embassy's commitment to fostering mutual understanding and addressing issues critical to both Togo and the United States.