The Alumni Outreach Program for FY 2025, funded by the U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia, supports projects led by alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. The purpose of the program is to provide one-time grants to alumni associations to launch sustainable initiatives that apply skills acquired during their exchange experiences to benefit local communities in North Macedonia. Priority is given to proposals focused on community service, democratic progress, social responsibility, and economic reform, with an emphasis on supporting underserved communities and advancing equity.

Grants range from $20,000 to $80,000, with an anticipated total funding pool of $80,000, contingent on available funds. Up to two awards are expected, with each project lasting from six to twelve months. Projects must be initiated and led by teams that include at least two alumni of U.S. government exchange programs, though U.S. citizens who are alumni may participate. Applicants must be non-profit organizations based in North Macedonia. This grant does not require cost-sharing, though additional contributions are encouraged if feasible.

Eligible proposals must address how the project incorporates themes from the alumni’s U.S. program, shares expertise with local communities, and has long-term benefits for North Macedonian citizens. Proposals should include a summary, organizational background, problem statement, clearly defined goals, objectives, activity descriptions, methodology, project timeline, personnel information, partner roles, evaluation plan, and future funding plans. Budget submissions must detail personnel, travel, equipment, supplies, contractual services, and indirect costs, including justification for each expense.

Applications are due by February 14, 2025, and should be submitted via email to the U.S. Embassy in Skopje. Proposals will be evaluated on criteria including program quality, organizational capacity, budget realism, monitoring and evaluation plans, sustainability, and support for equity. Successful applicants will be notified by May 30, 2025, and awards will commence as early as June or September 2025. Recipients are expected to submit regular financial and performance reports as outlined in the award terms.

The program emphasizes adherence to federal regulations, including maintaining registration in SAM.gov and compliance with various reporting and policy requirements, particularly those that promote equity and prohibit funding activities that support partisan politics, religious activities, or lobbying efforts.