The Congo Basin Conclave II – Cultural Component NOFO provides funding to foster community engagement and cultural awareness to support the preservation of the Congo Basin. Below is a detailed summary:

The program, led by the U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, allocates up to $50,000 for a cooperative agreement, with a project performance period of 3 to 12 months. Proposals must focus on cultural activities that raise awareness of the environmental and social challenges facing the Congo Basin, galvanize public support, and engage local communities, particularly youth. The application deadline is February 14, 2025, and the anticipated project start date is in Spring 2025.

Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. For-profit organizations are not eligible. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and be registered in SAM.gov. Cost-sharing is not required but can strengthen the proposal. The program targets the Congo Basin region, with a focus on community-based cultural outreach and artistic engagement.

The goals of the program include promoting cross-border collaboration and inspiring grassroots support for conservation through cultural initiatives. Activities may involve arts diplomacy, public concerts, movie screenings, university engagements, or other creative means to emphasize the importance of environmental stewardship and cultural heritage. Applicants are encouraged to integrate messaging that challenges audiences to actively participate in the preservation of the Congo Basin.

Applications should include a six-page proposal detailing the problem to be addressed, specific objectives, planned activities, monitoring and evaluation strategies, and a timeline. A separate budget justification narrative is required to outline detailed costs, with adherence to U.S. Department of State financial guidelines. Proposals will be reviewed for feasibility, organizational capacity, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and commitment to equity and underserved communities.

The U.S. Embassy Kinshasa will have significant involvement in program implementation, including participant selection, event scheduling, and coordination with the administrative grant recipient. The evaluation process emphasizes program impact, alignment with goals, and the potential to sustain positive outcomes beyond the funding period.

Applicants must submit all required documents, including budget forms and resumes of key personnel, via email to the designated address by the deadline. Questions about the grant process can be directed to the U.S. Embassy contacts provided in the NOFO. Awards will be announced by March 31, 2025.