Deadline: 20-Mar-2026
The U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo and the Cultural Heritage Center are inviting applications for the 2026 Freedom 250 edition of the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). Grants of USD $25,000–$250,000 support projects that preserve cultural heritage, foster technical exchange between U.S. and foreign partners, and highlight historical and cultural ties, including archaeological sites, historic buildings, museum collections, and traditional cultural expressions.
Program Overview
The Freedom 250 AFCP commemorates 250 years of American independence and celebrates freedom, democracy, and unity through cultural heritage preservation. Key program objectives include:
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Preserving archaeological sites, historic buildings, monuments, museum collections, and traditional cultural expressions (e.g., indigenous languages, crafts)
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Facilitating technical exchanges between American experts and international partners
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Strengthening cultural connections and showcasing U.S. leadership in heritage preservation
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Supporting public diplomacy and U.S. foreign policy objectives
Funding Details
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Grant Amount: USD $25,000–$250,000, subject to fund availability
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Purpose: Conservation, protection, and technical exchange in cultural heritage projects
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Eligible Activities: Preservation of historically and culturally significant sites, collections, and expressions valued by local communities
Who is Eligible?
Eligible project implementers must be reputable, accountable, and non-commercial. Organizations include:
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Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
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Museums and cultural institutions
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Educational institutions and universities
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Ministries of culture or similar government entities
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U.S.-based organizations recognized under IRS Section 501(c)(3)
Ineligible applicants:
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Individuals
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Commercial entities
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Organizations that previously failed to meet grant objectives or reporting requirements
How to Apply
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Identify Project Scope: Ensure alignment with Freedom 250 priorities, including preservation and technical collaboration with U.S. experts.
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Prepare Proposal: Include project description, objectives, timeline, budget, and letters of support.
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Submit Application: Follow instructions provided by the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo.
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Selection Process: Applications are evaluated on heritage significance, technical feasibility, sustainability, and impact on U.S.-international relations.
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Implement Project: Successful applicants execute preservation activities according to approved plans and reporting requirements.
Why It Matters
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Protects cultural resources of historical and community significance
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Enhances local capacity and technical knowledge in heritage preservation
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Strengthens U.S. engagement and cultural diplomacy
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Highlights shared history and values through global cultural heritage
FAQs
1. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects preserving archaeological sites, historic buildings, monuments, museum collections, and traditional cultural expressions.
2. Who can apply?
NGOs, museums, educational institutions, ministries of culture, and U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations.
3. What is the funding range?
USD $25,000–$250,000, depending on project scale and objectives.
4. Can individuals apply?
No, individuals and commercial entities are not eligible.
5. Are previous AFCP recipients eligible?
Only if they successfully met all objectives and reporting requirements of past grants.
6. Is technical collaboration with U.S. experts required?
Encouraged, especially for projects emphasizing knowledge exchange and capacity building.
7. What is the expected impact?
Strengthened heritage preservation, enhanced local capacity, improved bilateral relations, and promotion of U.S. cultural leadership.
Conclusion
The Freedom 250 edition of the AFCP 2026 provides significant support for projects that preserve culturally and historically important heritage while fostering collaboration between U.S. and foreign partners. With grants ranging from USD $25,000 to $250,000, this initiative highlights the U.S. commitment to global heritage stewardship, cultural diplomacy, and long-term community impact.
For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic.