Deadline: 15-Aug-2026
The U.S. Embassy in Cuba Public Diplomacy Grant Program provides funding for projects that promote democratic values, human rights, freedom of expression, and individual prosperity. The programme supports civil society initiatives that increase access to independent information and strengthen understanding of core freedoms.
Projects must align with U.S. Department of State public diplomacy objectives and are typically completed within 12 months.
About the Program
- The programme is funded by the U.S. Embassy in Cuba.
- It supports public diplomacy and civic engagement initiatives.
- Projects focus on freedom, justice, democracy, and human rights.
- Emphasis is placed on independent expression and press freedom.
- Initiatives must strengthen understanding of democratic values.
- Activities should support Cuban civil society and independent voices.
- Projects are limited to a 12-month implementation period.
Program Priorities
With Freedom and Justice for All
- Promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
- Strengthening awareness of freedom of expression.
- Supporting independent media and journalism.
- Encouraging accountability of institutions and governance systems.
- Expanding access to unbiased information.
- Empowering civil society and community leaders.
- Supporting religious leaders, artists, and academics.
The Pursuit of Happiness
- Encouraging understanding of entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
- Supporting independent micro-entrepreneurs.
- Promoting individual economic opportunity.
- Strengthening awareness of personal prosperity pathways.
- Encouraging innovation in small-scale economic activity.
- Supporting creative and independent economic initiatives.
Objectives
- Strengthen awareness of freedom, justice, and democracy.
- Promote human rights and independent expression.
- Support civil society and grassroots engagement.
- Enhance access to independent and factual information.
- Encourage economic self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship.
- Promote accountability of institutions and governance systems.
- Support creative and independent voices in society.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include:
- Civil society organizations.
- Religious organizations.
- Independent educational institutions.
- Independent journalists.
- Social media content creators.
- Independent artists and creatives.
- Freelance media professionals.
- Natural persons (individual applicants).
Ineligible applicants:
- For-profit entities.
- Organizations or individuals linked to the Cuban regime.
Funding and Duration
- Project duration: up to 12 months.
- Funding levels vary depending on project scope and availability.
- Matching or co-financing is encouraged but not required.
- Continuation funding may be considered based on performance and availability.
- Final award amounts are determined by the grant officer.
Application Requirements
- Applicants must submit a concise project proposal.
- Organizations must have a valid SAM.gov registration and UEI (individuals exempt).
- One proposal per organization is recommended.
- Projects must align with programme priorities.
- Clear implementation plan and objectives are required.
Ineligible Activities
The programme does not fund:
- Construction projects.
- Scientific research or surveys.
- Commercial or profit-driven projects.
- Institutional or organisational capacity-building only projects.
- Duplicate or previously funded activities.
- Illegal activities or non-compliant initiatives.
Target Beneficiaries
With Freedom and Justice for All
- Civil society actors and activists.
- Independent journalists and media creators.
- Artists, academics, and cultural professionals.
- Religious and community leaders.
- Social media content creators and opinion leaders.
The Pursuit of Happiness
- Independent micro-entrepreneurs.
- Small-scale economic actors.
- Individuals pursuing self-employment opportunities.
- Local innovators in informal and independent markets.
Selection Considerations
- Alignment with public diplomacy priorities.
- Potential to strengthen civic awareness and engagement.
- Impact on freedom of expression and human rights.
- Support for independent information ecosystems.
- Feasibility within a 12-month timeframe.
- Reach and relevance to target communities.
- Sustainability of outcomes beyond the grant period.
Why This Program Matters
- Strengthens civil society participation and expression.
- Expands access to independent and reliable information.
- Supports human rights awareness and advocacy.
- Encourages economic independence and entrepreneurship.
- Promotes dialogue on governance and accountability.
- Empowers independent voices across media and culture.
- Builds awareness of democratic principles and freedoms.
Conclusion
The U.S. Embassy in Cuba Public Diplomacy Grant Program supports initiatives that promote freedom, justice, human rights, and independent expression. By funding civil society, media, and entrepreneurship-focused projects, the programme aims to strengthen civic engagement and expand access to independent information while encouraging individual prosperity and democratic values.
For more information, visit Embassy of the United States in Cuba.
