The U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong and Macau has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for its FY 2025 Annual Program Statement. The purpose of this small grants program is to strengthen ties between the U.S. and Hong Kong/Macau through cultural, academic, and professional exchanges that highlight shared values and promote bilateral cooperation. All proposed programs must include a U.S. component, such as collaboration with American experts or institutions, to foster better understanding of U.S. policies and perspectives. The grants are intended to support activities that involve cultural and educational exchanges, particularly in areas like STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), American English acquisition, and environmental awareness.

Priority will be given to proposals that focus on several key areas, including STEAM-related initiatives, economic empowerment for underrepresented groups, environmental sustainability, and projects that promote human rights and good governance. The inclusion of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in project proposals is strongly encouraged. Proposals should also align with the consulate’s broader priorities, such as fostering civil society, combating human trafficking, and supporting media freedom.

Eligible applicants include U.S. and non-U.S. nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, individuals, and public international organizations. For-profit entities are not eligible. Applicants can request funding between $3,000 and $50,000 for projects lasting up to 12 months. The total available funding for this program is $300,000. Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis from October 24, 2024, until May 16, 2025, with review dates in January and May. Grants may be awarded in the form of a fixed-amount award, grant, or cooperative agreement, with the latter involving more direct involvement from the consulate staff.

Applications must include mandatory forms, such as SF-424, SF-424A (for budget information), and SF-424B (for assurances). Applicants must also provide a detailed budget justification and may include attachments such as resumes of key personnel, letters of support, and, if applicable, a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA). Proposals should clearly outline goals, a feasible program timeline, and a method for measuring success through monitoring and evaluation.

Applicants must be registered with SAM.gov and have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) in order to apply. For non-U.S. organizations, an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is not required, but a UEI is necessary for SAM.gov registration. Proposals should be submitted electronically to the Public Affairs Section of the consulate, and applicants are encouraged to start the SAM.gov registration process early, as it can take up to 8 weeks.

The review criteria for proposals include the applicant’s capacity, the feasibility of the program idea, alignment with consulate priorities, and a clear budget justification. Proposals must also include a monitoring and evaluation plan to track progress.