The Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund (FTIF) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs aims to support projects that improve fiscal transparency and public financial management. The program seeks to strengthen governance, accountability, and transparency in countries assessed in the annual Fiscal Transparency Report (FTR). Eligible projects should address issues such as public budget transparency, parliamentary oversight, independent audits, natural resource management transparency, and public engagement in fiscal processes.

The FTIF program will allocate up to $740,009 in total funding, with anticipated awards ranging from one to two projects. The performance period is expected to last between 10 to 24 months, with a potential for extension based on project performance and funding availability. Applications are due by January 13, 2025, at 12:00 PM EST, with an anticipated start date in September 2025.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society/non-governmental organizations, public and private educational institutions, and public international or governmental organizations. There are no cost-sharing requirements.

Proposals should focus on improving the completeness, reliability, and availability of budget and public debt data, enhancing parliamentary oversight, strengthening audit institutions, ensuring transparency in natural resource management, and fostering public participation in budget processes. Eligible activities include technical assistance, training, public outreach, and development of information-sharing infrastructure.

Applications must include a proposal narrative (maximum 10 pages), budget justification, and supporting documentation such as CVs, letters of support, and a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) if applicable. Proposals will be evaluated based on alignment with FTIF objectives, project design and sustainability, alignment with U.S. strategies, risk mitigation plans, and cost-effectiveness.

For further details or clarifications, interested applicants can contact Lewis May (mayal@state.gov) or Geoffrey Thomas (thomasgf@state.gov) and are encouraged to attend an information session scheduled for November 21, 2024.