Opportunity
Simpler Grants.gov #DFOP0018586
Deployment of Secure American AI Technology in South Asia (AI-ACES Program)
Posted
July 01, 2026
Respond By
August 03, 2026
Identifier
DFOP0018586
NAICS
541512, 541690, 541611
This opportunity from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs seeks proposals for the AI-ACES program to advance secure American AI technology in South Asia. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA), Office of Foreign Assistance (SCA/FA) - Program Scope: - Deploy secure, U.S.-made artificial intelligence technology in critical infrastructure and strategic economic sectors - Target at least three countries among Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka - Counter Chinese technological influence in the region - Products/Services Requested: - Secure deployment of American AI technology - Capacity building, workforce development, and AI skill development - Policy support, data governance, cybersecurity, and sustainable learning initiatives - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Applicants must demonstrate technical and governance policy experience in South Asia - Substantial federal involvement in planning and execution - Focus on American-origin AI solutions and IT equipment - Funding & Performance: - Single cooperative agreement award - Funding range: $2,000,000 to $5,000,000 - Performance period: up to 36 months
Description
The AI-ACES program by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs aims to deploy American AI technology securely in strategic economic sectors and infrastructure of U.S. partners in South Asia. The program targets 3 or more priority countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It focuses on delivering secure U.S.-made AI technology, policy support, workforce development, and deployment assistance to counter Chinese technological influence. The program will be implemented through a cooperative agreement with a performance period of up to 36 months and funding ranging from $2,000,000 to $5,000,000.