The U.S. Embassy Tbilisi Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) has announced the Cultural Small Grants Program, which seeks to strengthen cultural ties between the United States and Georgia. This initiative focuses on promoting mutual understanding and cooperation through cultural and exchange programming. All proposed projects must incorporate an American cultural element or involve American experts, organizations, or institutions to enhance the connection between the two nations. The program aims to highlight shared values and increase awareness of U.S. policies and perspectives.

Eligible activities under this grant include academic and professional lectures, artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances and exhibitions, cultural heritage conservation and preservation projects, and community-based cultural initiatives. Other eligible activities include professional exchanges, international festivals held in Georgia, and sporting events designed to build stronger ties between U.S. and Georgian participants. Programs are encouraged to focus on regions outside the capital and prioritize engagement with youth, women and girls, people with disabilities, seniors, ethnic and religious minority communities, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable groups.

The program does not fund activities related to partisan political activity, religious programming, construction projects, fundraising campaigns, lobbying efforts, or institutional development of organizations. Charitable, scientific research, or duplicative programs are also ineligible.

Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations, governmental and non-profit educational institutions, governmental institutions, and Legal Entities of Public Law. Both U.S.- and Georgia-based entities are eligible to apply. For-profit or commercial entities are not eligible.

The program expects to issue approximately 15 awards, with funding amounts ranging between $5,000 and $24,000 per award. The total anticipated funding for the program is $250,000, with projects expected to be completed within 12 months. Funding is contingent upon availability and may be awarded as a grant, fixed amount award, or cooperative agreement.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and projects are anticipated to begin four to six months after submission. Proposals should include a clear program narrative, expected outcomes, a timeline, and a budget detailing how funds will be utilized to achieve program objectives. Successful applications will demonstrate strong cultural ties between the U.S. and Georgia and propose innovative and impactful engagement strategies.

For more details, interested applicants can contact the U.S. Embassy Tbilisi Grants Team at tbilisicultural@state.gov.