The U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia has announced the 2025 Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program (Funding Opportunity Number: SMK800-25-PAS003). This program aims to strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and North Macedonia through cultural and exchange programming, emphasizing shared values, bilateral cooperation, and mutual understanding. Projects must include an American cultural element or a connection with American experts, organizations, or institutions.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society organizations, public and private educational institutions, individuals, and governmental institutions registered in the United States or North Macedonia. Organizations must have an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and registration in SAM.gov, except individuals who are not required to register. Each organization may submit only one proposal; multiple submissions will result in disqualification.

The program seeks to fund initiatives in areas such as academic and professional exchanges, artistic workshops, cultural preservation, democratic values, youth empowerment, gender issues, human rights, critical media literacy, and environmental protection. Projects focused on social welfare, religious activities, lobbying, infrastructure, or organizational development are not eligible for funding. Proposals must clearly outline objectives, goals, implementation methods, a sustainability plan, and measurable outcomes.

A total of $100,000 is available for funding, with anticipated awards ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 each. The expected performance period is between one and twelve months, with a project start date of January 1, 2025. Cost-sharing is not required but may be included as additional support.

Applications must include forms SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B, along with a project proposal, budget justification narrative, and required attachments such as CVs of key personnel, letters of support from project partners, and any necessary permission letters. Proposals should address goals, objectives, implementation plans, evaluation criteria, and sustainability beyond the grant period.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but must be submitted by June 15, 2025. Proposals received by December 31, March 31, and June 15 will be reviewed in January, April, and July, respectively, with responses provided approximately six weeks later. Submissions must be sent via email to SkopjeGrants@state.gov.

Evaluation criteria include the quality and feasibility of the program idea, organizational capacity, clarity of objectives, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation plan, sustainability, and support for equity and underserved communities. Awards will be administered by a Grants Officer, and successful applicants will be required to submit regular financial and performance reports.

The program aligns with the U.S. Embassy’s goals to promote cultural exchange, enhance mutual understanding, and support youth and community development in North Macedonia.