The 2025 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2025), administered by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy France, invites past participants of U.S. government-funded or -sponsored exchange programs to apply for funding to implement innovative projects addressing global challenges. Eligible alumni teams must consist of at least two members and submit proposals by February 21, 2025, at 18:00 local time in France. Projects must take place within France, with potential cross-border activities requiring additional validation. Awards range from $5,000 to $35,000, depending on the availability of funds, and projects should be completed within six to twelve months, starting in September 2025.

The program’s primary objective is to enable alumni to apply their exchange program experiences to benefit their communities through public service initiatives that foster U.S.-France cooperation on critical issues. The focus areas include sports diplomacy, shared democratic values, civic education, cultural diplomacy, media literacy, trade and investment, science and technology, security and defense, and foreign policy. Each proposal must clearly address one or more of these themes, demonstrate a Franco-American component, and provide detailed plans for implementation, evaluation, and community engagement.

Eligibility is restricted to alumni of U.S. government exchange programs who are members of organizations registered in France, such as non-profit institutions, think tanks, or educational organizations. Alumni who are U.S. citizens may only participate as team members. All applicant organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and be registered in SAM.gov. The inclusion of cost sharing is not required but may strengthen the application. Proposals from individuals or for-profit organizations are ineligible.

Applicants must submit detailed applications using mandatory forms, including SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B, along with a proposal and budget form specific to AEIF 2025. The proposal must outline team member roles, the project’s problem statement, goals, methods, timeline, beneficiaries, communication strategy, and monitoring and evaluation plans. Attachments like key personnel CVs, letters of support from partners, and any required permissions must also be included. The budget should be itemized and justified in U.S. dollars, following guidelines provided in the notice.

Proposals will be evaluated on relevance to program themes, clarity of purpose, alumni involvement, local partner support, evaluation plans, communication strategies, and budget appropriateness. A panel at the U.S. Mission to France will pre-select up to three proposals for further review by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) in Washington, D.C. Final decisions are anticipated by June 30, 2025. Payment will be issued in installments based on progress and reporting requirements.

Interested applicants should begin preparing their registration in SAM.gov early, as the process can take several weeks. Questions about the application process can be directed to GrantsFrance@state.gov. An online information session for alumni will be held on January 23, 2025, at 11:30 am, providing further guidance.