2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026) — Equatorial Guinea (Department of State)

Opportunity number: PDS_EquatorialGuinea_FY26_02
Application deadline: May 10, 2026, at 23:59

---

A. Basic Information

1. Overview

• Funding Opportunity Title: 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026)
• Funding Opportunity Number: PDS_EquatorialGuinea_FY26_02
• Announcement Type: Initial Announcement
• Deadline for Applications: May 4, 2026, at 23:59
• Assistance Listing Number: 19.022
• Length of performance period: 6 to 12 months
• Number of awards anticipated: 1
• Award amounts: $5,000 to $35,000
• Total available funding: $35,000
• Type of Funding: FY26 Educational and Cultural Exchange (ECE)
• Anticipated project start date: September 1, 2026

Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement or FAA with substantial involvement

Project Performance Period: Proposed projects should be completed in twelve (12) months or less. The Department of State will entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.

This notice is subject to availability of funding. The Public Diplomacy Section reserves the right to award less or more than the funds described under circumstances deemed to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated grants officer.

2. Executive Summary

Embassy Malabo invites U.S. Government exchange alumni teams to submit proposals for the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026. In recognition of Freedom 250, this opportunity supports alumni‑led initiatives that highlight shared U.S.–Equatorial Guinea values and advance innovation, skills development, and community engagement.

This NOFO prioritizes projects that strengthen human capital and advance economic diversification, key Mission priority goals. Alumni are encouraged to propose programs that equip youth and early‑career professionals with leadership, entrepreneurship, and applied STEM competencies aligned with modern industry standards, including those used by U.S. companies operating in Equatorial Guinea. Through practical training, mentorship, and exposure to real‑world professional environments, the initiative aims to expand local access to technical English, digital skills, engineering fundamentals, and workplace readiness. A strengthened local talent pipeline supports both U.S. strategic interests and local development by fostering a workforce that can effectively collaborate with American companies, contribute to regional economic resilience, and engage with global best practices. Programs incorporating hands‑on STEM learning, entrepreneurship development, prototype building, or leadership training are encouraged.

Through this Freedom 250‑aligned initiative, Embassy Malabo aims to empower and support a more resilient, diversified, and skills‑driven economy in Equatorial Guinea.

---

B. Eligibility

1. Eligible Applicants

The following organizations are eligible to apply:

• Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations

• Public and private educational institutions

• Individuals

• Applicants must be alumni of a U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange program or a U.S. government-sponsored exchange program.

• Project teams must include at least two (2) alumni

• Alumni who are U.S. citizens may not submit proposals, but U.S. citizen alumni may participate as team members in a project

• Alumni teams may be comprised of alumni from different exchange programs and different countries

• Applications must be submitted by exchange alumni or alumni associations of U.S. government exchange alumni. No other organizations are eligible to apply. Exchange alumni can partner with not-for-profit or non-governmental organizations, think tanks, and academic institutions to implement project activities. The grant can be issued to the individual alumni or the partner organization

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

Cost sharing is not required, but it is encouraged. Proposals that demonstrate meaningful contributions from partners or community stakeholders may be viewed more favorably, as they reflect local commitment and help extend the impact of AEIF funding.

Cost sharing may include inkind support, such as:

• Donated services, professional labor, or volunteer time
• Use of facilities, venues, or equipment provided at no cost or reduced cost
• Local businesses contributing goods or refreshments
• Community organizations or NGOs sponsoring specific activities
• Experts or trainers donating time to lead workshops or seminars
• Institutions offering meeting space, transportation, or technical support

All cost sharing contributions must be realistic, clearly described, and dedicated to the proposed project.

3. Other Eligibility Requirements

All organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov as well as a valid registration in SAM.gov. Please see Section E.3 for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

Applicants are only allowed to submit one proposal per organization. If more than one proposal is submitted from an organization or individual, all proposals from that institution or individual will be considered ineligible for funding under this funding opportunity.

4. This opportunity will not support:

• Projects relating to partisan political activity;
• Charitable or development activities; including direct social services such as medical, psychological, and/or humanitarian support
• Construction projects;
• Projects that support specific religious activities;
• Fund-raising campaigns;
• Lobbying for specific legislation or programs
• Scientific research or surveys;
• Commercial projects;
• Projects intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization;
• Projects that duplicate existing projects;
• Illegal activities

---

C. Program Description

1. Project Background, Goals, and Objectives

Background & Problem Statement

Equatorial Guinea’s continued economic diversification depends on developing a workforce with strong leadership, entrepreneurship, and applied STEM skills. Employers, particularly in sectors where U.S. companies operate, identify persistent gaps in workplace readiness, technical English, and practical experience with modern industry standards. These gaps limit youth access to emerging opportunities and restrict the growth of a competitive, locally trained talent pipeline. The current U.S. administration’s focus on human capital development, workforce opportunity, and strategic economic engagement underscores the need for programming that delivers practical skills and strengthens local capacity to meet evolving industry demands. The Freedom 250 commemoration further highlights themes of innovation, which resonate strongly with youth aspirations in Equatorial Guinea.

This NOFO responds to these needs by supporting alumni-led initiatives that equip young people with market-relevant leadership, entrepreneurship, and applied STEM competencies, and that create clearer pathways to mentorship, internships, and professional growth. Through practical training and exposure to real workplace environments, the initiative aims to strengthen human development, enhance workforce readiness, and support broader economic resilience in alignment with U.S. foreign policy priorities.

How the Program Addresses the Need & Advances U.S. Priorities

This program addresses identified workforce and skills gaps by equipping youth and early‑career professionals with practical leadership, entrepreneurship, and applied STEM competencies that align with the needs of modern industries, including sectors where U.S. companies are active partners. By expanding access to technical English, digital skills, and hands‑on learning, the program strengthens Equatorial Guinea’s human capital and supports the development of a talent pipeline capable of meeting international standards.

This program directly advances the 2025 National Security Strategy pillars of "Energy Dominance" and "Economic Prosperity." Through mentorship, professional exposure, and partnerships with local institutions and private sector stakeholders, the program enhances local human capital to collaborate effectively with U.S. businesses and strengthens broader economic resilience.

By aligning with Freedom 250’s themes of innovation, civic engagement, and shared progress, the initiative highlights the positive role of U.S. alumni in advancing community development, expanding opportunity, and fostering locally led solutions that reflect both U.S. values and national development priorities in Equatorial Guinea.

Project Audience(s): The program targets Equatoguinean youth and early‑career professionals ages 22–35 in Malabo, Bata, and nearby regions who seek practical skills to improve employability and engage in emerging economic sectors. Beneficiaries may include young professionals needing leadership and workplace‑readiness training, aspiring entrepreneurs developing viable business ideas, and students or entry‑level professionals pursuing applied STEM or agri‑tech skills relevant to industries where U.S. companies operate.

Project Goal: Strengthen Equatorial Guinea’s human capital by equipping youth and early‑career professionals (ages 22–35) with leadership, entrepreneurship, and applied STEM skills that support workforce readiness, economic diversification, and sustainable engagement with modern industry standards in line with U.S. foreign policy priorities.

Project Objectives: The project objectives are the measurable results Embassy Malabo expects the selected project to achieve once it is awarded.

• Objective 1: Equip 30 youth and early‑career professionals (ages 22–35) with practical leadership, communication, and workplace‑readiness skills, with at least 75% demonstrating measurable improvement required to succeed in modern professional environments.
• Objective 2: Provide hands‑on entrepreneurship and applied STEM training to the same 30 participants, resulting in at least 10 viable business concepts and one functional technical prototype aligned with industry‑relevant standards, with at least 80% showing competency gains.
• Objective 3: Strengthen local workforce pathways by securing at least 10 partnerships with private sector and training institutions, leading to a minimum of 8 structured mentorships, internships, or apprenticeships within three months of program completion.

2. Substantial Involvement

If this award would be issued as a cooperative agreement or fixed amount award (FAA) with substantial involvement, the U.S. Embassy may be actively engaged in project oversight to ensure alignment with U.S. foreign policy priorities and compliance with AEIF 2026 requirements. Substantial involvement may include:

U.S. Embassy Roles and Responsibilities If awarded as a cooperative agreement or FAA with substantial involvement, the U.S. Embassy may:

• Approve the project’s workplan, and major activity designs prior to implementation.
• Provide technical guidance to ensure alignment with U.S. Mission priorities and Freedom 250 themes.
• Review and approve key deliverables, including training materials, participant selection criteria, and communication products.
• Participate in selected events (e.g., opening, closing, site visits) for oversight and representation.
• Monitor implementation through regular check-ins, performance updates, and financial reviews to ensure compliance with grant requirements.

Recipient Roles and Responsibilities The Recipient will:

• Implement all approved activities and manage daily program operations, logistics, and finances.
• Recruit and select participants according to Embassy approved criteria.
• Secure venues, instructors, mentors, materials, and partnerships required for implementation.
• Ensure all activities follow appropriate safeguarding, security, and communications protocols.
• Submit timely program, financial, and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) reports in accordance with U.S. Embassy requirements.

---

D. Application Contents and Format

Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible.

Content of Application

Please ensure:

• The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity
• All documents are in English
• All budgets are in U.S. dollars
• All applicant authorized signatures are provided where indicated on the various, required forms.

The following documents are required:

1. Mandatory application forms

• SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance – organizations) or SF-424-I (Application for Federal Assistance --individuals) at grants.gov or Embassy website - https://gq.usembassy.gov/ .
• SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov or Embassy website.
• SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov or Embassy website.
  (note: the SF-424B is only required for individuals, organizations exempt from registration, and for organizations not required to fully register in SAM.gov)

2. Proposal (12 pages maximum)

The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below.

• Proposal Summary: Short narrative that outlines the proposed project, including project objectives and anticipated impact.
• Introduction to the Organization or Individual applying: A description of past and present operations, showing ability to carry out the program, including information on all previous grants from the State Department and/or U.S. government agencies as well as experience with and expertise in areas related to those described in the NOFO.
• Problem Statement: Clear, concise and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed program is needed
• Program Methods, Design, Activities, and Deliverables: The “goals” describe what the program is intended to achieve. The “objectives” refer to the intermediate accomplishments on the way to the goals. These should be achievable and measurable. Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives.
• Proposed Project Schedule and Timeline: The proposed timeline for the program activities. Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events.
• Key Personnel: Names, titles, roles and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. What proportion of their time will be used in support of this program?
• Project Partners: List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees (if applicable).
• Future Funding or Sustainability: Applicant’s plan for continuing the program beyond the grant period, or the availability of other resources, if applicable.
• Monitoring & Evaluation Plan: Proposals must include a draft Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). The M&E PMP should show how applicants intend to measure and demonstrate progress towards the project’s objectives and goals. Attachment AEIF_2026_Monitoring_and_Evaluation_Resource of this funding opportunity contains a template that may be used to fulfill this requirement. While the grantee is free to create their own template, completing AEIF_2026_Monitoring_and_Evaluation_Resource will ensure a thorough PMP.

The key components to the PMP are as follows:

• Monitoring and Evaluation Narrative: In narrative form, applicants should describe how they intend to monitor and evaluate the activities of their award. In addition, the applicant should describe any M&E processes, including key personnel, management structure (where M&E fits into the overall program’s staff structure), technology, and as well provide a brief budget narrative explaining any line-item expenditures for M&E listed in the program’s budget. If the proposal is from a prior grantee, the proposal discusses how the grantee has adapted, improved or otherwise modified their approach based on learning from previous experience. This narrative is limited to two pages.
• Theory of Change Diagram: Applicants are expected to submit either a Theory of Change diagram or an If-Then Statement that illustrates how project activities will lead to intended outcomes.
• Monitoring and Evaluation Datasheet: The applicant must include their proposed activities and their expected outputs and outcomes as well as the goals and objectives as written in the NOFO. The datasheet’s purpose is to explicitly illustrate how a project’s activities lead to tangible results (such as increased beneficiary skills, knowledge, or attitudes) that ultimately address a PDS objective.
• The selected applicant’s M&E PMP is subject to review and approval before any award will be issued under this NOFO. The selected applicant will be required to work with the Public Diplomacy Section’s Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist to ensure the applicant’s M&E PMP achieves an expected level of expertise and meets PDS objectives.
• Expenses directly associated with monitoring and evaluation are considered allowable.
  The suggested template includes a space to list the portion of the total budget amount directly associated with monitoring and evaluation activities.

3. Budget Justification Narrative

• Detailed Budget: Applicants must submit a detailed line-item budget. Applicants are encouraged to utilize the template provided with the funding opportunity but are not required to do so (Attachment AEIF_2026_Budget_Form). Line-item expenditures should be listed in the greatest possible detail. The budget must identify the total amount of funding requested, with a breakdown of amounts to be spent in the following budget categories: personnel; fringe benefits; travel; equipment; supplies; consultants/contracts; other direct costs; and indirect costs. See Annex Section I for a description of the types of costs that should be included in each category. Personnel salaries should include the level of effort and the rate of pay, which should cover the percentage of time each staff member will dedicate to grant-based activities. If an organization is charging an indirect cost rate without a NICRA, it must apply it to the modified total budget costs (MTDC), refer to 2CFR§200.1. Budgets shall be submitted in U.S. dollars and final grant agreements will be conducted in U.S. dollars.
• Budget Justification Narrative: Applicants must submit a budget justification narrative to accompany the detailed line-item budget. The purpose of the budget justification narrative is to supplement the information provided in the detailed budget spreadsheet by justifying how the budget cost elements are necessary to implement project objectives and accomplish the project goals. The budget justification narrative is a tool to help Embassy staff fully understand the budgetary needs of the applicant and is an opportunity to provide descriptive information about the requested costs beyond the constraints of the budget template. Together, the detailed budget spreadsheet, the budget justification narrative, and the SF-424A should provide a complete financial and qualitative description that supports the proposed project plan and should be directly relatable to the specific project components described in the applicant’s proposal.

Additional Budget Notes:

• Awards to Individuals: Please note the following budget guidelines for the Individual Award:
  • Salary/Honoraria: Only the award recipient may receive salary/honoraria from this funding mechanism. The Recipient must be the primary point of contact and manage all programmatic activities.
  • Contractual Costs: Additional individuals working on the award are only permissible through contracted services, as long as the services are not related to the core programmatic activities. Expenses for services such as accounting, legal support, social media management, website designer, etc., are allowable.
  • Other Direct Costs: Expenses related to securing venues, managing logistics, catering, etc. are allowable.
• Audit Requirements: Please note the audit requirements for Department of State awards in the Standard Terms and Conditions https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm and 2CFR200, Subpart F – Audit Requirements. The cost of the required audits may be charged either as an allowable direct cost to the award OR included in the organization’s established indirect costs in the award’s detailed budget.
• Visa Fees: Include all visa application and related fees in your budget as applicable. Please note DS-2019s for post-funded programs must be submitted directly by the award recipient. If you anticipate your program will include the DS-2019 visa processing, your organization must be a registered Designated Sponsoring Organization. For more information go to: https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/become-a-sponsor/

4. Attachments

• Key Personnel Resumes: A résumé, not to exceed one page in length, must be included for the proposed key staff persons, such as the Project Director and Finance Officer, as well as any speakers or trainers (if applicable). If an individual for this type of position has not been identified, the applicant may submit a 1-page position description, identifying the qualifications and skills required for that position, in lieu of a résumé.
• Letters of support from program partners: Letters of support should be included for sub-recipients or other partners. The letters must identify the type of relationship to be entered into (formal or informal), the roles and responsibilities of each partner in relation to the proposed project activities, and the expected result of the partnership. The individual letters cannot exceed 1 page in length.
• Indirect Costs: If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included in the application submission.
• Proof of Non-profit Status: Documentation to demonstrate the applicant’s non-profit status (e.g., U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their 501(c)(3) Internal Revenue Service determination letter, and non-U.S. organizations should provide evidence of non-profit status issued by a government entity).
• Proof of Registration: A copy of the organization’s registration should be provided with the proposal application. U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their IRS determination letter. Equatorial Guinea-based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government organization.

Other items NOT required/requested with the application submission, but which may be requested if your application is approved to move forward in the review process include:

• a. Copies of an organization or program audit within the last two (2) years
• b. Copies of relevant human resources, financial, or procurement policies
• c. Copies of other relevant organizational policies or documentation that would help the Department determine your organization’s capacity to manage a federal grant award overseas
• d. Documentation that demonstrates the recipients’ plan and/or policy to safeguard PII of participants and beneficiaries. It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure protection of personally identifiable information (PII) and safeguard PII when collecting, maintaining, using and disseminating such information
• e. Information to determine what financial controls and standard operating procedures an organization uses to procure goods and services, hire staff and track time and attendance, pay for grant-related travel, and identify other financial transactions that may be necessary to undertake the project activities
• f. The Embassy reserves the right to request any additional programmatic and/or financial information regarding the proposal.

---

E. Submission Requirements and Deadlines

1. Address to Request Application Package

Application forms required above are available at:

• https://gq.usembassy.gov/education/#grants
• grants.gov
• MyGrants.

2. Department of State Contacts

If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact: malabogrants@state.gov.

3. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov)

Required Registration: All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov. A UEI is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards.

An applicant must maintain an active registration while it has a proposal under review by the Department and must continue to keep the registration active for the entire duration of the period of performance of any Federal award that results from this NOFO.

The 2 CFR 200 also requires subrecipients to obtain a UEI. Please note the UEI for subrecipients is not required at the time of application but will be required before an award is processed and/or directed to a subrecipient.

Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from 4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible.

• Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.
• Organizations based outside of the United States and that do not pay employees within the United States do not need an EIN from the IRS but do need a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.
• Organizations based outside of the United States that do not intend to apply for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) awards are no longer required to have a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code to apply for non-DoD foreign assistance funding opportunities. If an applicant organization is mid-registration and wishes to remove an NCAGE code from their SAM.gov registration, the applicant should submit a help desk ticket (“incident”) with the Federal Service Desk (FSD) online at www.fsd.gov using the following language:
  “I do not intend to seek financial assistance from the Department of Defense. I do not wish to obtain an NCAGE code. I understand that I will need to submit my registration after this incident is resolved in order to have my registration activated.”

Organizations based outside of the United States and that DO NOT plan to do business with the DoD should follow the below instructions:

• Step 1: Proceed to SAM.gov to obtain a UEI and complete the SAM.gov registration process. SAM.gov registration must be renewed annually.

Exemptions
An exemption from the UEI and sam.gov registration requirements may be permitted on a case-by-case basis. See 2 CFR 25.110 for a full list of exemptions.

Organizations requesting exemption from UEI or SAM.gov requirements must email the point of contact listed in the NOFO at least two weeks prior to the deadline in the NOFO providing a justification of their request. Approval for a SAM.gov exemption must come from the warranted Grants Officer before the application can be deemed eligible for review.

Please note: Any applicant with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.”

4. Submission Dates and Times

Submission Deadline: All applications must be received by May 4, 2026, at 23:59. For the purposes of determining if an award is submitted on time, PDS will utilize the timestamp provided by Grants.gov. This deadline is firm and is not a rolling deadline. If organizations fail to meet the deadline noted above their application will be considered ineligible and will not be considered for funding.

Submission Method A: Submitting all application materials directly to the following email address: malabogrants@state.gov. Applicants opting to submit applications via email to malabogrants@state.gov must include the Funding Opportunity Title and Funding Opportunity Number in the subject line of the email.

5. Funding Restrictions

i. Funding Restrictions for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA): None of the funds awarded resulting from this Notice of Funding Opportunity may be made available for subawards, direct financial support, or otherwise used to provide any payment or transfer to United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

ii. Certification Regarding Compliance with Applicable Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws: If the place of performance or delivery of any award made under this NOFO will be within the United States, applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the following at the time of award:

• a. Its compliance in all respects with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws is material to the government’s payment decisions for purposes of section 3729(b)(4) of title 31, United States Code and;
• b. It does not operate any programs promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion that violate any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws. A program promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion means a program whose purpose is to promote preferences based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origins, such as in training or hiring.
• c. Applicants seeking clarification on the reporting requirement are encouraged to review the Frequently Asked Questions resource developed by the U.S. Department of Education.

iii. Certification of Trafficking in Persons Compliance and Compliance Plan: Applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the following at the time of award for awards where the estimated value of services to be performed outside the United States exceeds $500,000:

• a. To the best of the Recipient’s knowledge, neither the Recipient, nor any subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor of the Recipient or any agent of the recipient or of such a subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor, is engaged in any of the activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a);
• b. The recipient has implemented a Trafficking in Persons compliance plan to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175(a) and is compliant with this plan; and the compliance plan must follow the minimum requirements described in 2 CFR 175(b)(5).
• c. That the Recipient has and will implement procedures to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a) and to monitor, detect, and terminate any subrecipient, contractor, subcontractor, or employee of the recipient engaging in these activities.

i. Recipients do not need to submit a copy of the plan. However, they must provide it to the Grants Officer upon request, and as appropriate, must post the useful and relevant contents of the plan or related materials on its website and at the workplace. Recipients must re-certify on an annual basis for the entire award period of performance.

iv. Prohibition on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manufactured or Assembled by American Security Drone Act-Covered Foreign Entities

(a) Definitions.

• American Security Drone Act-covered foreign entity means an entity included on a list developed and maintained by the Federal Acquisition Security Council (FASC) and published in the System for Award Management (SAM) at https://www.sam.gov
• FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system means an unmanned aircraft system manufactured or assembled by an American Security Drone Act-covered foreign entity.
• Unmanned aircraft means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft .
• Unmanned aircraft system means an unmanned aircraft and associated elements (including communication links and the components that control the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the operator to operate safely and efficiently in the national airspace system.

(b) Prohibition. Recipients of funding under this Notice of Funding Opportunity (including subawards and subcontracts issued by the recipient) will be prohibited from:

1. delivering any FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system, which includes unmanned aircraft (i.e., drones) and associated elements;
2. Operating a FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system in the performance of the award; and
3. Using Federal funds for the purchase or operation of a FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system.

c) Exemptions, exceptions, and waivers. The prohibitions described above will not apply if the agency determines that an exemption, exception, or waiver applies and the award indicates that such a determination has been made. [See sections 1823 through 1825 and 1832 of Public Law 118-31 (41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.) for statutory requirements pertaining to exemptions, exceptions, and waivers.].

v. Pre-Award Costs: Pre-award costs are not an allowable expense for this funding opportunity.
vi. Construction: Any award made as a result of this NOFO will not allow for construction activities or costs.
vii. Direct Social Services: Costs that cover and provide direct social services, such as welfare, charity, health or economic relief, are unallowable. Medical assistance, such as costs to include medical professionals, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists to participate in the project activities are not allowed.

6. Other Submission Requirements: Copyrights and Proprietary Information

If any of the information contained in your application is proprietary, please note in the footer of the appropriate pages that the information is Confidential – Proprietary. Applicants should also note what parts of the application, program, concept, etc. are covered by copyright(s), trademark(s), or any other intellectual property rights and provide copies of the relevant documentation to support these copyrights.

Applicants must acquire all required registrations and rights in the United States and Equatorial Guinea. All intellectual property considerations and rights must be fully met in the United States and Equatorial Guinea.

Any sub-recipient organization must also meet all the U.S. and Equatorial Guinea requirements described above.

---

F. Application Review Information

1. Review Criteria

Criteria: Each application submitted under this announcement will be evaluated and rated on the basis of the criteria enumerated below. The criteria are designed to assess the quality of the proposed project, and to determine the likelihood of its success.

• Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea — 30 points: The program idea should be innovative and well developed, with sufficient detail about how project activities will be carried out. The proposals should demonstrate originality and outline clear, achievable objectives that align directly with the priorities and requirements of the NOFO. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline, and the project scope is appropriate and clearly defined. Finally, the proposal aligns with the following:

  • The project clearly demonstrates a direct contribution to current U.S. foreign policy priorities.
  • The project will positively impact America’s reputation among foreign government partners.
  • The project will positively impact American’s reputation among foreign publics.
  • The proposal does not include any activities contrary to the following Executive Orders:
    • Executive Order 14173: "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity
    • Executive Order 14287: “Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens”
    • Executive Order 14168: Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government

• Organizational/Individual Capacity and Record on Previous Grants — 20 points:

  • o The project proposal demonstrates that the organization has sufficient expertise, skills, and human resources to implement the project, including internal controls in place to manage federal funds.
  • o The organization demonstrates that it has a clear understanding of the underlying issue that the project will address.
  • o The organization demonstrates capacity for successful planning and responsible fiscal management. This includes a financial management system, a bank account, and if applicable, satisfactory audit findings.
  • o Applicants who have received grant funds previously have been compliant with applicable rules and regulations, including the Award Provisions and Standard Terms and Conditions.
  • o Where partners are described, the applicant details each partner’s respective role and provides curriculum vitae (CVs) for persons responsible for the project and financial administration. Proposed personnel, institutional resources, and partners are adequate and appropriate.

• Project Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives — 20 points: The project plan is well developed, with sufficient detail about how activities will be carried out. The proposal specifies target audiences, participant recruitment, and geographic areas of implementation. The proposal outlines clear, achievable objectives. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline. The project scope is appropriate and clearly defined.

• Budget — 15 points: The budget and narrative justification are sufficiently detailed. The budget demonstrates that the organization has devoted time to accurately determine expenses associated with the project instead of providing rough estimates. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. The results and proposed outcomes justify the total cost of the project. Budget items are reasonable, allowable, and allocable.

• Monitoring and Evaluation — 10 points: There is a complete and thorough draft submission of a M&E Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). This will include a list of proposed project activities, corresponding milestone, output, and outcome indicators, a description of data collection methods, and a timeline for collecting such information. The proposal presents a clear theory of change on how the program will address that problem. Use of the suggested template (The M&E template will be posted on the Embassy Malabo website) will satisfy these requirements. Funded projects will have their plans finalized during the negotiation phase, and monitoring plans may be subject to periodic updates throughout the life of the project.

• Sustainability — 5 points: The project proposal describes clearly the approach that will be used to ensure maximum sustainability or advancement of project goals after the end of project activity.

2. Indirect Costs

If two or more applications receive equivalent scores based on the evaluation criteria outlined in this NOFO, preference will be given to the applicant with the lower indirect cost rate, as consistent with Executive Order 14332, Section 4(b)(iii). This preference will only be applied as a tie-breaking mechanism and does not supersede the primary evaluation criteria.

3. Review and Selection Process

a. Acknowledgement of receipt. Applicants will receive acknowledgment of receipt of their proposal.

b. Review. All submissions are screened for technical eligibility. If a submission is missing any required forms/documents listed above in Section D. Application Contents and Format, it will be considered ineligible and will not be reviewed by the grants review committee. A technical review panel will review eligible proposals based upon the criteria noted in this NOFO.

c. Follow up notification. Applicants will generally be notified within 120 days after the NOFO deadline regarding the results of the review panel.

2. Risk Review

i. Under the merit review as required by 2 CFR 200.206, prior to making a Federal Award the Department will review and consider the following risk factors:

• Financial stability
• Management systems and standards
• History of performance
• Audit reports and findings
• Ability to effectively implement project requirements

ii. High Risk Designation Awardees that are deemed to be high risk based on the above risk factors will be held to special award conditions. At a minimum, the recipient and/or project designated as High Risk will be required to submit monthly narrative reports and/or quarterly detailed financial reports. Recipients may also be required, upon request of the Grants Officer or Grants Officer Representative, to provide electronic copies of receipts or other supporting documentation (e.g., timesheets, travel documents) for costs incurred. The Grants Officer may withhold 10% of the award amount until final reports have been reviewed and approved by the GO. The recipient may be required to pay all salaries supported by the grant via electronic funds transfer. Other special award conditions may also be included if deemed appropriate by the Grants Officer.

---

G. Award Notices

The award or cooperative agreement will be written, signed, awarded, and administered by the Grants Officer. The award agreement is the authorizing document, and it will be provided to the recipient for review and counter-signature. The recipient may only start incurring project expenses beginning on the start date shown on the award document signed by the Grants Officer.

If a proposal is selected for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional future funding. Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of performance is at the discretion of the Department of State.

Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received.

Payment Method:
Recipients will be required to request payments by completing form SF-270—Request for Advance or Reimbursement and submitting the form to the Grants Officer and Grants Officer Representative.
Recipients may not draw down funds without the affirmative authorization of the Department of State. In addition, recipients must submit, with each SF-270 payment request, a detailed explanation justifying the request.

---

H. Post-Award Requirements and Administration

1. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award, to ensure that they will be able to comply. These include:

In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s guidance located at 2 CFR part 200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department of State will review and consider applications for funding, as applicable to specific programs, pursuant to this notice of funding opportunity in accordance with the following:

• Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR), as updated in the Federal Register’s 89 FR 30046 on April 22, 2024, particularly on:
  • Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on the program objectives through an impartial process of evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR part 200.205),
  • Promoting the freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O. 13864) (§§ 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341),
  • Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR part 200.322), and
  • Terminating agreements pursuant to the U.S. Department of State Standard Terms and Conditions, including, to the greatest extent authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2 CFR part 200.340).

For the avoidance of doubt, the Department has sole discretion over the determination that an award no longer effectuates program goals or agency priorities, and this provision permits awards to be terminated at the Department’s convenience, including when it determines that the award no longer advances the national interest.

• 2 CFR 25 - UNIVERSAL IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT
• 2 CFR 170 - REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION INFORMATION
• 2 CFR 175 - AWARD TERM FOR TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS
• 2 CFR 182 - GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE)
• 2 CFR 183 - NEVER CONTRACT WITH THE ENEMY
• 2 CFR 600 – DEPARTMENT OF STATE REQUIREMENTS
• U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS
• Recipients must comply with all applicable Executive Orders. A searchable list can be found in the Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/ .

2. Reporting

Reporting Requirements: Recipients will be required to submit financial reports and program reports. The award document will specify what reports are required and how often these reports must be submitted. Note: most recipients will be required to submit quarterly program progress and financial reports throughout the project period. The quarterly progress report should include an up-to-date copy of the PMP datasheet. Progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final certified programmatic and financial reports are due 120 days after the close of the project period.

All reports are to be submitted electronically.

The Awardee must also provide the Embassy on an annual basis an inventory of all the U.S. government provided equipment using the SF428 form.

Foreign Assistance Data Review: As required by Congress, the Department of State must make progress in its efforts to improve tracking and reporting of foreign assistance data through the Foreign Assistance Data Review (FADR). The FADR requires tracking of foreign assistance activity data from budgeting, planning, and allocation through obligation and disbursement. Successful applicants will be required to report and draw down federal funding based on the appropriate FADR Data Elements, indicated within their award documentation. In cases of more than one FADR Data Element, typically program or sector and/or regions or country, the successful applicant will be required to maintain separate accounting records.

3. Branding and Marking

The Department of State, its programs, and U.S. Government funding and assistance should be easily identifiable to the Department's global audiences.

Recipients of federal assistance awards must follow the branding guidance published at Guidance for Contracts and Grants - U.S. Department of State Brand System. Branding policy exceptions are outlined in the U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual 10 FAM 416, Policy Exceptions.

For more information, visit: https://brand.america.gov/

---

I. Other Information

Guidelines for Budget Justification

• Personnel and Fringe Benefits: Describe the wages, salaries, and benefits of temporary or permanent staff who will be working directly for the applicant on the program, and the percentage of their time that will be spent on the program.
• Travel: Estimate the costs of travel and per diem for this program, for program staff, consultants or speakers, and participants/beneficiaries. If the program involves international travel, include a brief statement of justification for that travel.
• Equipment: Describe any machinery, furniture, or other personal property that is required for the program, which has a useful life of more than one year (or a life longer than the duration of the program), and costs at least $10,000 per unit.
• Supplies: List and describe all the items and materials, including any computer devices, that are needed for the program. If an item costs more than $10,000 per unit, then put it in the budget under Equipment.
• Contractual: Describe goods and services that the applicant plans to acquire through a contract with a vendor. Also describe any sub-awards to non-profit partners that will help carry out the program activities.
• Other Direct Costs: Describe other costs directly associated with the program, which do not fit in the other categories. For example, shipping costs for materials and equipment or applicable taxes. All “Other” or “Miscellaneous” expenses must be itemized and explained.
• Indirect Costs: These are costs that cannot be linked directly to the program activities, such as overhead costs needed to help keep the organization operating. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, attach a copy of your latest NICRA. Organizations that have never had a NICRA may request indirect costs of 15% of Modified Total Direct Costs (MTDC) as defined in 2 CFR 200.1.
• “Cost Sharing” refers to contributions from the organization or other entities other than the U.S. Embassy. It also includes in-kind contributions such as volunteers’ time and donated venues.
• Alcoholic Beverages: Please note that award funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages and other entertainment related expenses.

STEP Enrollment

U.S. citizens who travel to Equatorial Guinea are encouraged to enroll in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) available at: https://step.state.gov/step/.
Enrollment enables citizens to receive security-related messages from the Embassy and makes it easier for us to locate you in an emergency. The Embassy also recommends that all travelers review the State Department's travel website at travel.state.gov for the Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Equatorial Guinea Specific Information.

---

2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund Proposal Form

To be completed by exchange alumni team leaders or U.S. Embassy/Consulate

All sections in this form need to be completed in order for the proposal to be eligible for submission.
Application Form Guidance is provided at the end of this form.

---

About Your Project

Project Name:

Requested Budget

• Total: $

Primary Location of Project:

If the project is taking place in multiple cities, states, or provinces within the same country, please enter all locations separated by a comma.

• Country:
• City/Town:
• State/Province:

Will your project take place in additional countries?

• If YES, please list additional countries:

---

Project Team Information

Are you applying as an alumni association?

• YES NO (please highlight answer)

If yes, what is the name of your alumni association?

• Name of Alumni Association (s):

---

Who are the alumni project team members?

There must be at least two exchange alumni team members for a project to be considered for funding. Along with name and contact information, please describe the role each team member will have in the project and their experience, qualifications, and ability to carry out that role. Indicate what proportion of their time will be used in support of the project. At least one of the alumni should be designated as the team lead.

Team Member 1:

• Team Lead YES NO
• Role within the Project Team
• Estimated Time committed to the Project (please highlight your selection)
  • 100% or less
  • 80% or less
  • 50% or less
  • 30 % or less
• First Name:
• Last Name:
• Exchange Program:
• Exchange Program Year(s):
• Country From:

Team Member 2:

• Team Lead YES NO
• Role within the Project Team
• Estimated Time committed to the Project (please highlight your selection)
  • 100% or less
  • 80% or less
  • 50% or less
  • 30 % or less
• First Name:
• Last Name:
• Exchange Program:
• Exchange Program Year(s):
• Country From:

Team Member 3: (as needed)

• Role within the Project Team
• Estimated Time committed to the Project (please highlight your selection)
  • 100% or less
  • 80% or less
  • 50% or less
  • 30 % or less
• First Name:
• Last Name:
• Exchange Program:
• Exchange Program Year(s):
• Country From:

Team Member 4: (as needed)

• Role within the Project Team
• Estimated Time committed to the Project (please highlight your selection)
  • 100% or less
  • 80% or less
  • 50% or less
  • 30 % or less
• First Name:

Team Member 4 (continued)

• Last Name:
• Exchange Program:
• Exchange Program Year(s):
• Country From:

Team Member 5: (as needed)

• Role within the Project Team
• Estimated Time committed to the Project (please highlight your selection)
  • 100% or less
  • 80% or less
  • 50% or less
  • 30 % or less
• First Name:
• Last Name:
• Exchange Program:
• Exchange Program Year(s):
• Country From:

---

Project Description

Project Summary (250 word limit):

Describe the specific need and/or challenge that this project will address and how you will address it.

Project Goal/s:

What is the aim of your project? State in one or two sentences the overall goal/s of your project and what outcome or change you expect to see.

Project Objectives:

List your project objectives which will support your project goal/s. Remember to create project objectives which are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time Bound).

Project Design and Methods (500 word limit):

Explain how the project is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve your established goal/s. Include who will benefit from your planned activities and how you plan to build on the outcome of this project. You may want to include workshop or training agendas, or any curricula developed for the use in your project. (Outlines of training agendas/workshop agendas/curricula will not count towards the word limit.)

Project Timeline:

Please provide a timeline of your project activities. (Bullet points preferred.)

Beneficiaries

Please provide the estimated number of direct and indirect beneficiaries. Direct beneficiaries are defined as persons who directly participate in your project. Indirect beneficiaries are usually not directly connected with the project but will still benefit from it. For example, Direct beneficiaries: 200 trained teachers; Indirect beneficiaries: 10,000 students (taught by trained teachers).

• Number of direct beneficiaries (total):
• Number of indirect beneficiaries (total):

---

Local Project Partners (250 word limit):

List any partners (individuals/organizations, etc.) with whom you will work to support or implement your project. Please note if you have an existing relationship with your partner organization(s) and describe their role in the project. If you do not yet have an existing relationship, how do you anticipate establishing a partnership with the organization(s)?

---

Communication and Outreach Plan (250 word limit):

How will you promote your project? Please provide a communication timeline of how and when you will present project accomplishments and highlights. Explain how you will report project highlights and achievements with your local embassy or consulate. Include social media, websites, print news, or other forms of media you intend to use to share information about your project to beneficiaries and the public.

Please list any websites or social media platforms or accounts that you may have for your project in the fields below: (Optional)

• Website:
• Facebook:
• X/Twitter:
• Instagram:
• YouTube:
• Other:

---

Monitoring and Evaluation

Please use the form below to lay out the monitoring and evaluation plan for your project. Refer back to your established project goal/s and project objectives. Please refer to the example in the application form guidance at the end of this document on how to fill out the form.

AEIF 2026 Monitoring and Evaluation Template

Goal/s of your project:

Objective 1:

• Activity Output Indicator (what are we measuring)
• Desired Outcome (what change do we expect to see)
• How we will collect data
• When we will collect data
• Who will collect data

---

Objective 2:

• Activity Output Indicator (what are we measuring)
• Desired Outcome (what change do we expect to see)
• How we will collect data
• When we will collect data
• Who will collect data

---

Objective 3:

• Activity Output Indicator (what are we measuring)
• Desired Outcome (what change do we expect to see)
• How we will collect data
• When we will collect data
• Who will collect data

---

Objective 4:

• Activity Output Indicator (what are we measuring)
• Desired Outcome (what change do we expect to see)
• How we will collect data
• When we will collect data
• Who will collect data

---

Application Form Guidance

About Your Project

Please choose a concise and/or catchy title, in English, for your project which will get the attention of our audience.

Project Team Information

The team needs to include at least two U.S. Government-sponsored exchange alumni. Please clearly indicate the role of the team member within the project and the percentage of time the team member will spend developing and/or implementing the project. This should clearly relate to the proposed project budget and any requested project management fees. Please include information about any non-alumni team members in this section as well.

Project Summary (250 word limit)

The project summary should describe the specific need and/or challenge that your project will address and how you will address it. Think about who your target audience is, when and where your project will take place, what activities you will include and why, and what change in attitudes you set out to see.

Project Goal/s (1-2 sentences)

What is the aim of your project? State in one or two sentences the overall goal/s of your project and what outcome or change you expect to see.
Example: Conduct a two-week AI camp with direct subject matter expert input from at least two Americans.

Project Objectives (3-5 objectives)

List your project objectives which will support your project goal/s. Remember to create project objectives which are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time Bound).
Example: Provide training workshops for secondary school teachers on effective use of American e-learning tools to improve content delivery and boost student attendance by 50% by the end of school year X.

Project Design & Methods (500 word limit)

Explain how the project is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve your established goal/s. Include who will benefit from your planned activities and how you plan to build on the outcome of this project. You may want to include workshop or training agendas or any curricula developed for the use in your project.

Project Timeline (Bullet points preferred)

Please provide a timeline of your project activities. Be realistic and incorporate appropriate time for project planning. Please include when you will submit your final project report to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate.

Beneficiaries

Please provide the estimated number of direct and indirect beneficiaries. Direct beneficiaries are defined as persons who directly participate in your project. Indirect beneficiaries are usually not directly connected with the project but will still benefit from it.
Example: Direct beneficiaries: 200 trained teachers; Indirect beneficiaries: 10,000 students (taught by trained teachers)

Local Project Partners

List any partners (individuals/organizations, etc.) with whom you will work to support or implement your project. Local community involvement is a strong sign that the project will engage a broad array of experts, such as subject matter experts, community centers, academic institutions, businesses, local/national government, non-governmental organizations, American Spaces. Please note if you have an existing relationship with your partner organization(s) and describe their role in the project. If you do not yet have an existing relationship, how do you anticipate establishing a partnership with the organization(s)?

Communication and Outreach Plan

The communication and outreach plan should lay out how you will promote your project and through which channels. Include social media, websites, print news, or other forms of media you intend to use to share information. Include in the plan how you intend to engage your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate and how you will report project highlights and achievements.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Please use the form to lay out the monitoring and evaluation plan for your project. Refer back to your established project goal/s and project objectives. Consider the data needed to effectively monitor progress toward specific outputs and outcomes as well as how you will collect the data. Use well-crafted indicators to measure a project’s progress toward the desired results.
Example:

• Goal/s: Increase the capacity of secondary school teachers to effectively deliver online instruction in country X to support closing the literacy gap in secondary school students
• Objective 1: Provide training workshops for secondary school teachers on effective use of e-learning tools to improve content delivery and boost student attendance by 50% by the end of school year X.
• Activity Output Indicator (what are we measuring)
• Desired Outcome (what change do we expect to see)
• How we will collect data
• When we will collect data
• Who will collect data

Teacher training workshop on e-learning

• Trained 200 teachers in x region on e-learning curriculum development and resource platform
• Number of users engaging with content on online resource platform
• Increased number of teachers using e-learning tools, higher student attendance,
• Increased number of teachers engaging with online teaching tools
• How we will collect data: Tracker user engagement on online platforms, attendance of students in online classrooms, Number of downloads of online material
• When we will collect data: At start of program, 2-month intervals, end of program
• Who will collect data: Designated M&E project team member, Online Platform Designer

---

AEIF 2026 Alumni Monitoring and Evaluation Resource Guide

Initiatives like AEIF projects are designed to influence change in behavior, attitudes, and knowledge.

A strong project plan incorporates methods to track and measure these changes.

This Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) resource guide will help get you started on developing a strong M&E plan for your project. Please note the following examples are not prescriptive and should be used to guide you through the development of your own indicators, questions, and data metrics.

---

1. Key Terms and Definitions

Term	Definition
Monitoring	Tracks a program’s progress against established goals and objectives through ongoing data collection.
Evaluation	A formal study of a program. A systematic and objective assessment of an ongoing or completed activity, project, program, or policy.
Goal	The most significant change a program seeks to achieve.
Objective	The changes a program seeks to achieve to reach the goal.
Activities	Program or project actions or tasks that are implemented to achieve targeted outcomes.
Baseline	The value of an indicator before the implementation of a program.
Impact	A result or effect that is caused by or attributable to a program, project, process, or policy. Impact may also refer to higher-level effects that occur in the medium- or long-term and can be intended or unintended and positive or negative.
Indicator	An observable or measurable characteristic that indicates the extent to which a program objective is being achieved.
Output	The immediate results from an activity.
Outcome	Change that has occurred as a result of activities implemented.
Results	Any product or change that occurs due to the program activities. A program’s outputs, outcomes, and/or impact.
Target	Specific, planned level of result to be achieved within an explicit timeframe.

---

2. Developing Your Monitoring and Evaluation Plan

Using the following sample guiding questions, indicators, and data collection methods, you can start putting together an M&E plan:

Project Design Phase

What are your project goals? How and when will you measure those goals? What are the gaps in existing services or knowledge that your project seeks to fill? How many people are affected by the problem? What challenges do you anticipate in project implementation?

Baseline Indicator Data type / Method

• Existing levels of knowledge and services and how they apply to target group/program participants
• Measurable rate of desired change in knowledge, attitudes, and practices to be achieved by the project over defined time
• Quantitative: Data from surveys and research on the topic in the context of target community or direct beneficiaries
• Qualitative: Focus groups and interviews

Project Implementation Phase

How will you know if you have selected the right participants? Are project beneficiaries and community members engaged and responding to project topics? Did you choose the right type of activities for your project? What needs to change to ensure the activities result in desired outcomes?

Output Indicator Examples Data type / Method

• Number of engagements with local media
• Number of beneficiaries who demonstrate new knowledge or skills
• Amount of time beneficiaries, alumni team, volunteers, and U.S. Embassy team spends on carrying out project activities
• Number of new toolkits, campaign guide, curriculum, or products produced
• Number of users engaging with/sharing online content and resources on project’s digital platforms
• Number of radio/TV audience, social media followers, or website users increased
• Quantitative: Number of participants, workshops, social media following, radio and TV shows or ads, blogs
• Qualitative: Testimonials, Focus Groups, Interviews

End of Project

Did your project meet or exceed your stated goals? Did your project influence change in knowledge, attitudes and practices? Is it possible to replicate and/or scale your project?

Outcome Indicators Data type / Method

• Number of beneficiaries who demonstrate new and/or increased knowledge or skills
• Number of people who take action as result of awareness campaign or training
• Number of new partnerships and audiences for alumni organizations and U.S. Embassy
• Project receives in-kind funding to support future activities
• Number of new businesses or income-generating activities
• Number of beneficiaries who register to vote, successfully apply for a job, increase English language skills, etc.
• Quantitative: Survey (stakeholder and beneficiaries), statistics from public and civil society organizations, and/or number of services provided by stakeholders including schools, health providers, business tech hubs, etc.
• Qualitative: Interviews, focus groups, testimonials from beneficiaries, service providers, teachers, volunteers, etc.

Impact What is the long-term impact of your project? What broader changes within the community, organization, society, or environment occurred as result of program outcomes?

Impact Indicators Data type / Method

• Change in policy, new legislation, issue reframing
• Partners, beneficiaries, and communities continue associated activities 6-months/1 year after the project
• Average increase in household income, number of new businesses registered, etc. after x-months/year
• Community reports decrease in violence, teen pregnancy rates, or spread of disease 6-months/ year later
• Number of schools and vocational institutes reporting increase of female students pursuing STEM degrees x-month/year later
• Percentage of registered voters/candidates who are women at the end of the project
• Quantitative: Surveys of community, public institutions, NGO reports
• Qualitative: Follow up interview with participants, community members, and stakeholders

Reporting

Reporting offers an excellent opportunity to assess and understand the impact of the project. ECA requires a final report be submitted upon project completion.
For Embassies only - Embassies must upload the final report to the project record in the Alumni Contact and Engagement System (ACES) and notify the ECA Regional Alumni Coordinator of the project’s completion.

---

3. Additional Resources (Articles and Videos)

Here is a curated list of helpful online resources on M&E, both videos and articles:

• ECA’s MODE Framework
• The Indicator Book (Includes ECA-designed and approved survey questions to help you design a survey to measure your results?
• Monitoring Concepts (YouTube Video)
• Evaluation Concepts (YouTube Video)
• Theories of Change (YouTube)
• Kirkpatrick’s Four Level Training Evaluation Model: (Training Projects)
• Measuring Nonprofit Social Impact: A Crash Course- How to Measure Social Impact