The U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, through its Public Diplomacy Section, has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the implementation of the Academy of Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program. This funding opportunity aims to empower women in Tajikistan by equipping them with professional skills, knowledge, networks, and access to resources to launch or scale successful businesses. The program will focus on two regions: Khatlon and the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO). Strong proposals will center on empowering women entrepreneurs through training and skills development, improving awareness of business opportunities, and enhancing access to funding.

The AWE program aims to train 25 to 30 women per cohort, offering modules on marketing, pricing, financial management, and strategic planning. The project is expected to include both online and in-person sessions facilitated by local experts, U.S. exchange alumni, and mentors. The program also emphasizes peer-to-peer mentorship, partnerships with local and U.S. businesses, and networking opportunities. Proposals should demonstrate a strong alignment with the U.S. National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality and include a focus on measurable outcomes such as increased confidence, business creation or scaling, and adoption of digital tools.

Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, civil society organizations, and public and private educational institutions. For-profit entities are not eligible to apply. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov. Cost-sharing or matching is not required but is encouraged. Organizations are limited to submitting one proposal each. Proposals must include a clear description of objectives, target audiences, a detailed budget, a monitoring and evaluation plan, and a sustainability strategy.

Applications must be submitted by January 20, 2025, via email to AlumniTajikistan@state.gov. Proposals must be in English, not exceed four pages, and include required forms such as SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B. Budgets must be expressed in U.S. dollars and include both a detailed line-item budget and a budget justification narrative. Additional documentation, including résumés of key personnel, letters of support, and proof of non-profit status, must also be provided.

Evaluation criteria include program design, alumni engagement, communication and outreach strategies, monitoring and evaluation plans, and budget feasibility. Successful applicants will receive funding ranging from $25,000 to $35,000, with a maximum total funding pool of $35,000. Awards will be administered through a cooperative agreement, and recipients will need to provide regular programmatic and financial reports. The U.S. Embassy reserves the right to adjust funding based on the quality of applications and the availability of funds.