The U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg, through its Public Diplomacy Section, has announced the “Bolstering Security and Defense” grant opportunity to support programs that strengthen bilateral ties between the United States and Luxembourg. This grant aims to promote cooperation in security and defense, focusing on areas such as NATO, defense spending, and modernization efforts. The funding is provided through the FY25 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and is open to various organizations, including non-profits, think tanks, academic institutions, government institutions, and individuals. U.S. organizations applying for funding must partner with a Luxembourgish organization.

The primary objective of this grant is to enhance security and defense collaboration between the U.S. and Luxembourg. This includes initiatives to raise awareness and support for U.S.-Luxembourg defense cooperation, countering disinformation and misinformation as threats to democracy, and promoting media literacy and research security in Luxembourg. Additionally, the program supports increased information sharing and cooperation in law enforcement and intelligence, with a particular focus on cybersecurity and countering ideologically motivated violent extremism. Projects that strengthen global alliances through NATO, the United Nations, and other multilateral organizations are also encouraged.

Applicants may request grant funding ranging from a minimum of $3,000 to a maximum of $15,000. While there is no requirement for cost-sharing or matching funds, proposals must demonstrate clear objectives, sustainability, and measurable outcomes. Funding may be used for a variety of activities, including public awareness campaigns, research initiatives, training programs, and strategic dialogues that align with the overall goals of bolstering security and defense collaboration.

Eligible applicants include U.S. and Luxembourgish non-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society organizations, public and private educational institutions, public international organizations, and government institutions. Individuals may also apply but must provide a detailed explanation of their unique qualifications. A key requirement for U.S. organizations is that they must partner with a Luxembourgish organization to be eligible for funding.

The grant application process begins with submitting a Statement of Interest (SOI). Full details on submission guidelines, required documentation, and evaluation criteria can be found on the U.S. Embassy Luxembourg’s website. All proposed programs must engage Luxembourg audiences and include a U.S. element or connection, such as U.S. experts, policies, or perspectives. Any speakers funded by the grant must be U.S. citizens.

The application deadline for this opportunity is May 4, 2025, with applications being accepted on a rolling basis up until that date. The grant is discretionary and will be awarded based on merit, alignment with program objectives, and potential impact. The final decision on funding awards will be made by the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg. For further details or application support, interested applicants should visit the U.S. Embassy Luxembourg’s funding opportunities page.