Simpler Grants.gov #DFOP0018011

U.S. Department of State Seeks Proposals for FY 2026 Sports Visitor Program International Exchanges

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), through its Office of Sports Diplomacy, is seeking proposals for the FY 2026 Sports Visitor Program, an international exchange initiative focused on youth and coaches. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), Office of Sports Diplomacy - Program Overview: - International sports-based exchanges for approximately 265 participants (130 foreign, 135 American), ages 15-23, plus adult coaches/chaperones - Five U.S.-based and seven international exchanges, each lasting at least two weeks - Activities include sports training, leadership development, workshops, community service, cultural events, and follow-on alumni engagement - Eligibility and Requirements: - Applicants must be U.S. nonprofit organizations or educational institutions with at least four years of experience conducting international exchanges - Comprehensive participant safety and monitoring plans required - Robust media and communications strategies - Compliance with J visa regulations and detailed performance monitoring using MODE Framework indicators (demographics, cross-cultural competence, volunteering, skills development, alumni engagement) - Funding and Period of Performance: - Estimated award of approximately $4 million for an initial 12-18 month period, with potential renewal for two additional years - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or commercial vendors are mentioned; this is a service-based program - Notable Requirements: - Emphasis on advancing U.S. foreign policy priorities, promoting American leadership, and supporting the U.S. sports economy - Highlighting U.S. laws such as Title IX and the ADA - Detailed data collection and reporting post-program, with some outcomes measured up to 10 years after completion

Description

The Office of Sports Diplomacy of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the Sports Visitor Program, an international exchange program using sports to advance foreign policy priorities, promote American leadership, and support the U.S. sports economy. The program targets American and international youth (ages 15-23) and their adult coaches/chaperones, focusing on thematic sports-based exchanges that develop leadership skills and foster bilateral relationships. It includes U.S.-based and international exchanges lasting at least two weeks, with activities balancing sports training, workshops, community service, and cultural events. The program also supports follow-on projects for participants to share their experiences in their home communities.

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