The U.S. Mission to Italy’s Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) has announced the PDS Italy Annual Program Statement to fund programs that strengthen ties between the United States and Italy. The program aims to highlight shared values, promote bilateral cooperation, and deepen Italian audiences' understanding of U.S. policy, culture, and perspectives. Funded activities must target Italian audiences or those residing in Italy and incorporate a significant American element, such as collaboration with U.S. experts, institutions, or cultural entities.

Eligible applicants include registered U.S. and Italian not-for-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society and non-governmental organizations, individuals, non-profit educational institutions, and governmental institutions in both the United States and Italy. Programs must align with the program’s strategic priorities and address one of the following themes: democracy and democratic values, economic prosperity, or countering disinformation.

In the area of democracy and democratic values, proposals should reinforce democratic principles, counter extremism, antisemitism, gender-based violence, and intolerance of marginalized groups, or strengthen Italian civil society’s capacity to promote trust in democratic institutions. For economic prosperity, projects should promote transparent trade and investment while showcasing U.S.-Italian collaboration in sectors like science, technology, sustainable economies, and women’s economic empowerment. Proposals addressing disinformation should aim to increase awareness and provide tools to counter foreign information manipulation, with an emphasis on programs that engage journalists and media professionals.

Eligible activities may include academic and professional lectures, exchanges, seminars, partnerships, and speaker programs, as well as artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances, and exhibitions that feature American participants. Projects must include meaningful American elements to promote cultural and intellectual exchange.

Programs that are not eligible for funding include partisan political activities, programs targeting American audiences, charitable initiatives, construction projects, religious activities, fundraising campaigns, lobbying efforts, scientific research, or programs focused primarily on institutional development.

The funding opportunity is expected to open for applications on January 26, 2025. Proposals should outline clear objectives, program outcomes, and the intended impact on Italian audiences. While there is no specified award ceiling or total funding amount, applicants should align their proposals with the mission’s priorities and program guidelines. Cost sharing or matching is required for this opportunity.

For further details and submission requirements, interested applicants may contact the designated point of contact at the U.S. Mission to Italy. Additional information, updates, and clarifications will be provided as the opportunity progresses.