The Embassy of the United States in Norway has announced the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2025, inviting past participants of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs to submit proposals. Applications must come from teams of at least two ExchangeAlumni, with at least one team member being Norwegian or a resident of Norway. Alumni associations, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions with ExchangeAlumni on staff are also eligible to apply. Proposals should be submitted via email to oslogrants@state.gov by February 15, 2025, at 23:59 Oslo time.

The purpose of AEIF is to empower ExchangeAlumni to utilize the skills gained during their exchange programs to address global challenges, foster collaboration, and strengthen ties between Norway and the United States. Projects must align with one or more key objectives: building alumni networks, enhancing collaboration with the U.S. government, and supporting alumni leadership initiatives. Suggested project themes include promoting bilateral security and economic relationships, enhancing research security, and exploring shared cultural history.

Funding will range from $5,000 to $35,000 per project, with an anticipated program performance period of three to twelve months starting no earlier than August 1, 2025. Proposals must include a project summary, goals and objectives, design and methods, a timeline, beneficiaries, partners, a communication plan, and a monitoring and evaluation plan. A detailed budget form must also accompany the application, specifying costs in U.S. dollars. Certain expenses, such as salaries, construction, charitable activities, and partisan political efforts, are not permitted under AEIF guidelines.

Applications will undergo a two-tiered review process, beginning with a merit review by the U.S. Embassy in Norway, followed by final selection by the Office of Alumni Affairs at the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Competitive proposals will clearly articulate their objectives, demonstrate measurable impact, and align with AEIF’s goals.

For assistance with applications, the Embassy will offer office hours and application seminars. Further information and application forms can be accessed via the U.S. Embassy Norway website. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to oslogrants@state.gov.