The Public Diplomacy section of the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and Comoros, part of the U.S. Department of State, is pleased to announce its Public Diplomacy Annual Program Statement (APS). This Annual Program Statement outlines the Embassys funding priorities, strategic themes, and procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below. Purpose of the Annual Program Statement: The Public Diplomacy Annual Program Statement supports projects proposed by U.S., Malagasy, and/or Comorian educational, cultural, and other non-profit organizations or individuals that promote U.S. values, strengthen understanding between U.S. and Malagasy and/or Comorian people and institutions, and/or support U.S. Embassy goals of promoting human rights, transparency and good governance, economic and social prosperity, environmental stewardship, educational achievement, and sustainable development of natural resources. All programs must include a U.S. cultural element or a connection with U.S. experts, organizations, or institutions that will encourage increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. Priority Program Areas: Strengthening regional security and stability and combat transnational threats through engagement with diverse, targeted stakeholders on key issues like human trafficking, illegal unreported and unregulated fishing, and climate change related challenges. Addressing barriers to the advancement of women in STEM fields and business. Strengthening the business skills of young entrepreneurs. Promoting the development of trade and investment with the United States, including entrepreneurship, small- and medium-sized businesses, and innovation as the basis for strong, sustainable, inclusive economic growth that creates quality employment and incorporates diverse and excluded groups. Participants and Audiences: The list below delineates our target audiences: Community associations; Civil society professionals; Academic institutions; Business leaders and entrepreneurs; Community leaders; Women and youth from underserved communities; and Youth