The 2025 U.S. - Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Alumni Small Grants Opportunity, managed by the U.S. Embassy to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, and the OECS’ Public Diplomacy Section (PDS Bridgetown), invites applications from alumni of U.S. Department of State academic and professional exchange programs. The program offers small grants to support community-focused projects that align with U.S. Embassy Mission goals and leverage skills gained through U.S. Government-sponsored programs. These initiatives aim to empower alumni as changemakers addressing critical needs in their communities.

The total estimated funding available is $5,000, with awards ranging from $750 to $5,000. Eligible applicants are individual alumni of U.S. Department of State exchange programs. Proposals must focus on impactful activities that address disaster prevention and relief or other priorities aligned with U.S. public diplomacy objectives. Applicants from seven Eastern Caribbean islands accredited to the U.S. Embassy Bridgetown are encouraged to apply.

Applications are due by June 1, 2025, and must be submitted via the MyGrants portal. Proposals should include a project description, budget, and details on the intended community impact. Cost-sharing is not required. Projects may involve educational workshops, training programs, or other community-based initiatives that demonstrate innovation and measurable outcomes.

Evaluation criteria include the alignment of the project with U.S. Embassy goals, the potential impact on the community, feasibility, and the applicant's ability to execute the proposed activities. Alumni are encouraged to draw on their exchange experiences and networks to enhance project effectiveness and sustainability.

For further details, including application procedures and guidelines, applicants may contact Lisa Howell at bridgetownexchanges@state.gov. Additional information is also available on the Grants.gov platform.