Simpler Grants.gov #PDS-001-FY2026

U.S. Embassy Gaborone Solicits Proposals for Sports-Driven Economic Growth Projects (AEIF 2026)

This opportunity from the U.S. Department of State’s Embassy in Gaborone, Botswana, seeks proposals for the 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) to advance sports-driven economic growth and social inclusion in Botswana. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of State - U.S. Embassy Gaborone, Public Diplomacy Section - Eligible Applicants: - Alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs based in Botswana - Teams of at least three alumni or alumni associations - Program Focus: - Strengthen governance, management, and sustainability of Botswana’s sports organizations - Develop business models and fundraising strategies for sports entities - Enhance marketing, branding, and event management capabilities - Support athletes in post-sports career transitions - Foster international partnerships, especially with U.S. collegiate and professional teams - Funding Details: - Cooperative agreement awards - Award amounts range from $5,000 to $35,000 - Maximum of two awards anticipated - Project period: 6 to 12 months - Unique Requirements: - Projects must be led by teams of alumni (minimum three members) - Specific eligibility rules for U.S. and non-U.S. citizens - Substantial involvement from the U.S. Embassy - No OEMs or vendors are specified, as this is a grant for programmatic activities, not product procurement.

Description

The U.S. Department of State's Embassy Gaborone announces an open competition for alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs to submit project proposals for the 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF). The competition seeks projects that position sports as a sustainable driver of economic growth and social inclusion in Botswana, supporting U.S. foreign policy priorities through people-to-people engagement. The program targets sports federation and club leaders, coaches, administrators, and young athletes across Botswana to build professional skills and organizational capacity. Eligible applicants must be alumni of U.S. government exchange programs based in Botswana, with projects involving at least three alumni, including one team lead.

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