The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2025 is a funding opportunity provided by the U.S. Embassy Kigali, Department of State. It is designed to support U.S. government exchange program alumni in implementing public service projects that address global and local challenges while strengthening ties between Rwanda and the United States. The fund encourages alumni to apply their skills and experiences gained through U.S. exchange programs to projects that contribute to economic growth, democracy promotion, and human capital development.

Applicants must be alumni of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs, and each proposal must be submitted by a team of at least two alumni. The grant may be awarded to individuals or partner organizations such as not-for-profits, NGOs, think tanks, and academic institutions. U.S. citizen alumni cannot submit proposals but may participate as team members. The projects must be based outside of the United States and align with U.S. policy goals. Key focus areas include leadership development, health diplomacy, media capacity-building, and digital literacy for economic growth.

A total of up to two awards are anticipated, with award amounts ranging from $5,000 to $35,000, depending on available funds. The grant performance period is six to twelve months, with a potential for continuation funding based on progress and fund availability. The anticipated project start date is July 2025. The funding is issued under the Fulbright-Hays Act (FY25), and grants may be structured as fixed amount awards (FAA) or cooperative agreements, where the U.S. Embassy may have substantial involvement.

Applicants must submit a proposal that clearly outlines the project's goals, objectives, expected impact, timeline, budget, communication plan, and evaluation plan. Applications must be written in English, formatted according to the requirements, and include mandatory forms, CVs of key personnel, letters of support, and any necessary permission letters. The deadline for submission is March 14, 2025, at 11:59 PM GMT+2. Proposals must be sent via email to KigaliPDGrants@state.gov.

Applications will be evaluated based on their alignment with NOFO goals, implementation feasibility, community engagement, budget justification, and monitoring and evaluation plan. The U.S. government will conduct a risk review of applicants before awarding funds. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified by June 2025. Award recipients will be required to submit financial and programmatic reports to ensure compliance with U.S. government regulations.