The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is offering funding under its "Building Capacity of DRC’s Customs and Border to Curb Illicit Mineral Smuggling and Fraud" program. This initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) customs and border officers to detect and combat customs fraud, particularly involving critical minerals. A single cooperative agreement of $750,000 to $1,000,000 is expected to be awarded, with a performance period of 24 months starting in June 2025. No cost-sharing is required, though it is encouraged.

The primary objective is to enhance the capabilities of the DRC's Customs Agency (DGDA) to address illicit mineral smuggling and export fraud. Proposed activities include revamping the DGDA’s training curriculum, equipping training centers, implementing train-the-trainer programs, and deploying trained customs officials to strategic locations. The project also involves providing necessary equipment, such as scanners and spectrometers, and implementing mentoring programs to support the application of acquired skills. All training and materials must be conducted in French, with English translations provided to INL for records.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based and foreign non-profits, educational institutions, and NGOs. Applications must include a proposal narrative (up to 20 pages), a performance monitoring plan, a detailed budget and narrative, and a project risk analysis. Applicants are required to register in SAM.gov and Grants.gov and obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) before submitting their proposals. The application deadline is March 12, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST, with questions accepted until February 10, 2025.

Applications will be evaluated based on criteria such as project analysis and design, monitoring and risk plans, organizational capacity, and cost-effectiveness. The review process involves technical evaluation, risk assessment, and a consideration of performance and integrity data. The selected recipient will be notified via email and must adhere to post-award reporting requirements, including financial and programmatic updates.

For assistance, applicants may contact INL Points of Contact SiMonique Stallworth and Chris Spangler. Further details, including templates and additional instructions, are available on Grants.gov under this funding opportunity.