The 2025 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF), facilitated by U.S. Embassy Accra, offers alumni of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs an opportunity to submit project ideas through a two-step process. Initially, alumni are required to submit a statement of interest (SOI) that outlines their project goals, methods, and expected outcomes. This step streamlines the review process, allowing applicants to propose project concepts without the burden of submitting a full application initially. Successful SOI applicants will be invited to submit a complete proposal.

Projects must be developed and led by teams of at least two alumni, with a team leader identified for coordination. Alumni teams may partner with non-profits, think tanks, or academic institutions to implement their initiatives. Proposals must align with the mission’s priorities and address one of the following themes: supporting sustainable entrepreneurship in emerging industries, creating opportunity through education, strengthening civil society for democratic discourse, and protecting media freedom while enhancing journalistic capacity. All project activities must occur outside the United States and its territories.

Applicants can request funding amounts ranging from $5,000 to $35,000, with a performance period of up to 12 months, starting no earlier than July 2025. While cost-sharing is not mandatory, it is encouraged and can include in-kind contributions like volunteer time, discounted venues, or other forms of support. Projects must demonstrate clear community benefits, measurable outcomes, and sustainable impact beyond the grant period.

The SOI submission includes a two-page concept note and a one-page budget with a detailed justification. The concept note should provide key information, including the project title, team composition, goals, objectives, methods, timeline, beneficiaries, and a communication and outreach plan. A concise budget estimate must outline requested funding and how resources will be allocated. Projects involving ineligible expenses, such as U.S. airfare, direct social services, staff salaries, construction, or fundraising, will not be considered.

All submissions must be completed in English and adhere to formatting requirements, such as single-spaced text in 12-point Calibri font. Applications must be emailed to PASAccraGrant@state.gov by January 13, 2025, at 23:59 GMT. Submissions should include AEIF SOI 2025 and the project title in the subject line. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Proposals will be evaluated on their program quality, feasibility, alumni involvement, local partnerships, budget clarity, and sustainability. Successful applicants will proceed to the full proposal stage and undergo a final merit review before funding decisions are made. Additional post-award compliance, including financial and performance reporting, will be required for selected projects.