The Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation (ISN), under the U.S. Department of State, has announced a funding opportunity titled International Border Guard Training for Iraq and Jordan (2025-2027). This initiative aims to support and enhance the capacity of border security forces in Iraq and Jordan to prevent illicit trafficking, enforce export controls, and secure land borders against proliferation threats. The program seeks to address vulnerabilities in border security systems by improving technical capabilities, fostering interagency coordination, and advancing best practices in border management and enforcement.

The primary purpose of this program is to strengthen the institutional and operational capacity of Iraq and Jordan's border security agencies. The objectives include delivering specialized training programs, enhancing border monitoring technologies, improving interagency cooperation, and building sustainable frameworks for long-term border security operations. The initiative will focus on risk assessment, detection of illicit goods, effective enforcement of export control regulations, and prevention of unauthorized border crossings. Training sessions will cover topics such as advanced inspection techniques, cargo screening, and counter-proliferation measures, with an emphasis on real-world application and sustainability.

The award will be issued as a cooperative agreement, with a maximum funding ceiling of $1,016,279. This funding will support program activities over a period of up to two years. The cooperative agreement will involve substantial oversight and engagement from the U.S. Department of State, ensuring alignment with program goals, monitoring progress, and providing technical expertise. Activities may include workshops, field training exercises, procurement of essential border inspection tools, advisory services, and policy development support tailored to the specific needs of Iraq and Jordan.

Eligible applicants include domestic non-federal entities such as state and local governments, Indian tribes, institutions of higher education, and nonprofit organizations. Additionally, foreign nonprofit organizations, domestic and foreign for-profit organizations (with the requirement to waive any profit or fees), and foreign public entities, including foreign public international organizations, are also eligible to apply. All applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and maintain active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) at the time of application submission.

Proposals must include a clear and detailed project plan outlining activities, measurable objectives, timelines, and expected outcomes. Applicants are required to demonstrate experience in international border security training, capacity building, and technical assistance projects. Submissions must also include a detailed budget narrative, risk assessment, and performance evaluation strategy to ensure effective monitoring and reporting of project milestones.

The evaluation criteria will focus on the clarity and feasibility of the proposed activities, the expertise and qualifications of the project team, and the potential impact of the program on border security operations in Iraq and Jordan. Proposals demonstrating innovative approaches, sustainable outcomes, and strong collaboration with local stakeholders will receive priority consideration.

Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov or MyGrants by March 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. Questions regarding the application process can be directed to ECC_Grants@state.gov. Further details about the funding opportunity, including access to required application documents and resources, are available through the provided grant portal link.