The Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) 2025, managed by the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, supports projects that preserve cultural heritage in disaster-prone, politically unstable, or economically disadvantaged areas. Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the program highlights non-commercial, non-political, and non-military aspects of U.S. engagement. Eligible projects include restoration, conservation, stabilization, and documentation of cultural sites, objects, or traditions. Projects that support post-disaster recovery and build resilience for cultural heritage are prioritized.

Eligible applicants include non-commercial entities such as NGOs, museums, educational institutions, and ministries of culture. U.S.-based organizations under Section 501(c)(3) are also eligible. Projects must occur within Lebanon. Applications from individuals, commercial entities, and organizations with unmet obligations from previous awards are ineligible. Cost-sharing is not required but is encouraged. All organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov.

Funding ranges from $25,000 to $500,000 for projects lasting 12 to 60 months. Proposals must outline specific goals, activities, outputs, and outcomes aligned with the U.S. government’s public diplomacy objectives. Funding cannot be used for private property, natural heritage without a cultural connection, human remains, new constructions, or educational materials mandated for classroom use. Proposals must also exclude costs such as international travel outside the project country, contingency costs, and pre-award expenses unless approved.

The application process involves two rounds. Round 1, due January 3, 2025, requires a concept note detailing project basics, a summary description, and rationale for U.S. government support. Applicants must submit five high-quality digital images or audiovisual materials illustrating the cultural heritage's condition and urgency for preservation. Shortlisted applicants will advance to Round 2, with proposals due by April 17, 2025. Round 2 applications require comprehensive project details, including updated descriptions, detailed budgets, maintenance plans, public outreach strategies, and key personnel qualifications.

Applications are evaluated based on strategic value, feasibility, cultural and public diplomacy significance, and budget justification. Proposals must clearly define objectives, outputs, and measurable outcomes, with an emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. The Department of State will conduct risk assessments, including financial stability and grant management capacity.

Awards will be finalized by September 30, 2025, and recipients must submit financial and programmatic reports, including compliance with the Foreign Assistance Data Review (FADR). Applicants should direct inquiries and submit applications via email to PDBeirutGrants@state.gov.