The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) is offering a grant opportunity for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to implement programs benefiting refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable migrants in Nigeria's Cross River and Benue States. With a particular focus on education within humanitarian contexts, this funding aims to enhance access to quality learning opportunities for refugee populations. The funding floor is $1.8 million, and the ceiling is $2.1 million for projects up to 18 months in duration. Applications are due by November 29, 2024, and must be submitted through Grants.gov.

The program prioritizes educational initiatives that facilitate rapid integration or reintegration into formal learning, particularly for children who are out of school. Programs should also include strategies for teacher training, supporting students' progression through examinations, and promoting inclusive educational environments that address specific needs for children with disabilities and gender-sensitive programming. PRM stresses alignment with Nigeria's national education standards for any standalone curricula and requires that infrastructure improvements, such as building educational facilities, follow local accessibility guidelines.

Eligibility for the grant is limited to nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) IRS status or equivalent in other countries and international organizations, although multilateral entities like UN agencies are directed to apply separately. All proposals must meet the requirement that at least 50% of participants are refugees or similarly affected individuals. Organizations should include a localization strategy with one or more options: a transition plan with local authorities, partnering with a local organization, or strengthening the capacity of a local organization to ensure sustainability.

Applications should detail specific, measurable objectives using PRM’s SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), with indicators aligned with PRM’s standardized requirements. Mandatory indicators include the number of individuals reached through PRM funding, the dollar amount directed to local organizations, and the percentage of participants who report safe and accessible humanitarian assistance. Additionally, proposals are expected to address protection risks, gender analysis, and accountability to affected populations, focusing on subpopulations such as women and girls, particularly those with high vulnerabilities.

Successful proposals will undergo a rigorous review process, scored on factors like gap analysis, target population profile, and program design. Management experience, sustainability, coordination with local or international bodies, and risk management are also critical components. Proposals that are clear, feasible, and demonstrate a commitment to coordination with entities like UNHCR and the Nigerian government will have a competitive advantage.

To complete their application, applicants must provide various documents, including a narrative that fits within the specified page limit, a detailed budget, a risk assessment and security plan, and a protection from sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) plan. Compliance with Section 508 Accessibility Standards is also necessary. Following award notification, successful applicants must adhere to reporting requirements, including quarterly program and financial reports, to ensure transparency and accountability in fund utilization.