The U.S. Embassy in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, through the Department of State’s Public Diplomacy Section, is inviting applications for the Cross Border University Partnership Initiatives. This grant opportunity aims to foster sustainable academic collaboration between accredited higher education institutions in Côte d’Ivoire and the United States. Eligible applicants can propose projects designed to build connections through joint research, student and faculty exchanges, curriculum development, and professional development opportunities. The grant encourages projects that incorporate an American cultural element or collaboration with U.S. experts or institutions. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and must be submitted by April 30, 2025.

The primary goal of the program is to strengthen partnerships between U.S. and Ivoirian universities to enhance academic and institutional capacity. The grant supports initiatives such as joint research addressing global challenges, new curriculum development, faculty exchanges, shared resources, and projects promoting sustainability and technology use in education. Proposals should demonstrate clear goals, measurable objectives, and a plan to sustain the collaboration beyond the grant period. The maximum performance period is 12 months, with anticipated project start dates in September 2025. Funding per award is up to $250,000, subject to availability, and cost-sharing is not required but is encouraged to show institutional sustainability.

Applications must adhere to specific formatting and include required documentation, such as the SF-424 application forms, a proposal summary, a statement of the problem addressed, detailed project goals, a timeline, budget justification, and CVs of key personnel. Proposals must also include letters of support from program partners and a plan for monitoring and evaluating project success. The program emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, seeking projects that engage underserved communities and promote broad audience reach.

Eligibility is restricted to accredited higher education institutions in Côte d’Ivoire and the United States, with pre-established partnerships being a priority. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active registration in SAM.gov. Proposals must be submitted electronically to the designated email. The review process will evaluate organizational capacity, project feasibility, partner collaboration, budget justification, and monitoring and evaluation plans.

Applicants are encouraged to begin the registration process early due to the time required to complete necessary administrative requirements. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified by June 30, 2025. Award recipients will be required to report on financial and programmatic progress regularly. For additional details and submission guidelines, contact USEmbassyAbidjanGrants@state.gov.