Opportunity

Simpler Grants.gov #DOS-SAU-2602-PD

U.S. Department of State Solicits Partner for AI Leadership Exchange Program in Saudi Arabia

Posted

July 26, 2026

Respond By

September 08, 2026

Identifier

DOS-SAU-2602-PD

NAICS

611430, 541611, 928120

This opportunity is issued by the U.S. Department of State, Embassy Riyadh Public Diplomacy Section, seeking a partner to implement the AI Partnership & Exchange for Tech Leaders (APEX) program in Saudi Arabia. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of State, NEA/Embassy Riyadh Public Diplomacy Section - Program Overview: - Cooperative agreement to design and deliver a multi-phase program for Saudi nationals (ages 20-30) in AI-related fields - Program phases include: - Preparatory phase with online application portal, recruitment, and virtual hackathon - Two-week U.S. exchange trip featuring site visits, workshops, and mentorship with American business, technology, and academic leaders - Follow-on summit in Saudi Arabia for capstone project presentations - Target Participants: - Saudi students or recent graduates in AI, data science, robotics, or machine learning - Cohorts of 12, 16, or 20 participants (budget scenarios required for each) - Services Requested: - Full program implementation, including leadership training, project management, cross-cultural exchange, and performance monitoring - Substantial involvement from the U.S. Embassy in program oversight and media coordination - Notable Requirements: - No specific OEMs, products, or technology vendors are named - Applicants must be not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, or public international organizations - Estimated award value is approximately $250,000 for 12-24 months - Continuation grants may be considered based on performance and funding

Description

The U.S. Embassy Riyadh Public Diplomacy Section is seeking applications for a cooperative agreement to run the AI Partnership & Exchange for Tech Leaders program. The program aims to connect rising Saudi AI leaders with American experts in business, technology, and academia to build professional networks, study U.S. technology standards, and foster partnerships between American and Saudi institutions. It targets Saudi nationals aged 20 to 30 who are students or recent graduates in AI-related fields and includes three phases: preparation with virtual and in-person activities, a two-week U.S. exchange trip, and a follow-on summit in Saudi Arabia. Applicants must provide budget scenarios for 12, 16, and 20 participants.

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