U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (Tunisia)

The U.S. Embassy in Tunisia is inviting concept notes for the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation Freedom 250 Special Edition, marking 250 years of American independence and 25 years of AFCP. Grants of USD 25,000 to USD 250,000 support cultural heritage preservation projects that highlight historic U.S. contributions and international cultural connections since 1776.

Overview

The U.S. Embassy Tunis has announced a call for concept notes under the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation Freedom 250 Special Edition.

This special edition commemorates two milestones: 250 years of American independence and 25 years of the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. The call supports cultural heritage preservation projects that reflect historic connections between the United States and countries worldwide while promoting shared values of freedom, democracy, and unity.

Objectives of the Freedom 250 Special Edition

The Freedom 250 Special Edition aims to highlight the global historical contributions of the United States since 1776 through the protection and stewardship of cultural heritage.

The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate enduring cultural and historical relationships between the United States and partner countries and encourage technical exchange between American and international heritage professionals.

Priority Themes and Focus Areas

Projects submitted under this call should align with one or more of the following priorities.

Honouring global contributions of the United States throughout history.

Highlighting cultural and historical ties between the United States and other nations since 1776.

Supporting freedom, democracy, and unity through cultural heritage preservation.

Encouraging technical and professional exchange between American and foreign counterparts.

Prioritising cultural objects or sites associated with notable Americans.

Supporting cultural sites developed, excavated, or revealed by American archaeologists or heritage professionals.

Types of Projects Supported

The program invites concept notes for preservation initiatives across a wide range of cultural heritage categories.

Eligible project types include preservation of archaeological sites, historic buildings and monuments, museum and archival collections, and traditional cultural expressions such as indigenous languages, crafts, and intangible heritage.

Supported activities may include conservation, restoration, stabilization, documentation, inventory development, preventive conservation, consolidation, and anastylosis, all aimed at protecting heritage from deterioration, damage, or loss.

Funding Amount and Project Duration

Grants awarded under the Freedom 250 Special Edition range from USD 25,000 to USD 250,000.

Projects may be implemented over a period of one to four years, depending on scope, complexity, and technical requirements.

Expected Project Quality and Collaboration

The program seeks well-designed projects that demonstrate strong technical capacity, feasibility, and sustainability.

Successful proposals should show meaningful collaboration between American and international partners, with clear roles for technical exchange, shared expertise, and knowledge transfer.

Eligible Implementing Organizations

Eligible applicants must be reputable, non-commercial entities capable of managing cultural heritage preservation projects.

Eligible organizations include non-governmental organizations, museums, educational institutions, ministries of culture, and similar public or non-profit institutions.

Individuals and commercial entities are not eligible to apply, and all applicants must meet AFCP eligibility, compliance, and reporting requirements.

What Is Not Supported

Projects led by individuals or for-profit entities are not eligible.

Activities that do not focus on preservation or that fall outside AFCP guidelines will not be considered.

Applicants must ensure that proposed activities align strictly with AFCP cultural heritage preservation objectives.

Application Process

Applicants are invited to submit concept notes outlining the proposed project’s objectives, significance, methodology, partnerships, budget range, and expected outcomes.

Concept notes should clearly demonstrate alignment with the Freedom 250 Special Edition priorities and AFCP technical standards.

Only shortlisted concept notes will be invited to submit full proposals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the AFCP Freedom 250 Special Edition?

It is a special funding call under the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation celebrating 250 years of American independence and 25 years of AFCP, focusing on heritage projects connected to U.S. historical contributions worldwide.

How much funding is available per project?

Grants range from USD 25,000 to USD 250,000.

How long can projects run?

Projects may have implementation periods ranging from one to four years.

What types of heritage projects are eligible?

Eligible projects include preservation of archaeological sites, historic buildings, monuments, museum collections, and traditional cultural expressions such as indigenous languages and crafts.

Are partnerships with American institutions required?

While not mandatory in all cases, projects that include meaningful technical exchange and collaboration with American partners are strongly prioritised.

Who can apply for this funding?

Eligible applicants include non-commercial entities such as NGOs, museums, educational institutions, ministries of culture, and similar organizations. Individuals and commercial entities are not eligible.

Can projects focus on intangible cultural heritage?

Yes. Projects supporting traditional cultural expressions, including indigenous languages and crafts, are eligible if they align with AFCP preservation goals.

Conclusion

The AFCP Freedom 250 Special Edition offers a significant opportunity to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage that reflects the historical contributions of the United States and its enduring global relationships.

By supporting technically strong, collaborative preservation projects, the program aims to protect irreplaceable cultural heritage while promoting shared values of freedom, democracy, and international cooperation.