The U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining funding priorities, strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below.Purpose of Small Grants:PDS Phnom Penh invites proposals for programs that strengthen ties between the U.S. and Cambodia through cultural, educational, artistic, and creative programming that highlights U.S.-Cambodian shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy, culture, values, and perspectives. Past examples of PDS Small Grants Program programs include, but are not limited to: Academic and professional lectures, seminars and speaker programs; Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances and exhibitions; Professional and academic exchanges and programs; Cultural heritage conservation and preservation programs; Priority Program Areas: Empowering and/or educating youth to spur economic growth. Development of womens entrepreneurship and womens empowerment. Protecting the environment and strengthening resolve regional issues including but not limited to Lower Mekong issues, food security, water, and energy challenges. Programs to advance and promote human rights, including freedom of press and expression. Strengthening the understanding of civic engagement: making use of the interconnections of modern society to strengthen democracy. Projects or programs focusing on preservation, education, or economic growth for/with minority groups in Cambodia.