Deadline: 01-May-2026
The FY 2026 Ngawang Choephel Fellows Program supports emerging Tibetan entrepreneurs through a two-way economic exchange with the U.S., fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and cross-border partnerships. With up to $750,000 in funding, the program enhances business skills, promotes U.S.-Tibetan collaborations, and strengthens Indo-Pacific partnerships.
Overview of the Program
The Ngawang Choephel Fellows Program is a two-way economic exchange initiative designed to:
- Strengthen leadership and entrepreneurship among Tibetan communities
- Build partnerships between Tibetan entrepreneurs and U.S. businesses
- Support Tibetan self-determination and counter economic coercion
- Advance U.S. economic and foreign policy objectives
Launched in 1997, the program targets emerging entrepreneurs from Tibetan communities in China, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It emphasizes cross-cultural collaboration, economic development, and sustainable international relationships.
Program Objectives
The FY 2026 edition focuses on:
- Strengthening Indo-Pacific Partnerships: Promoting cooperation and resilience in the region
- Enhancing Business and Leadership Skills: Equipping Fellows to engage with U.S. companies and expand exports
- Fostering U.S. Economic Interests: Building connections between Tibetan and American entrepreneurs
- Building Entrepreneurial Networks: Supporting economic growth, innovation, and job creation
- Leveraging Technology: Streamlining applications, training, networking, and alumni engagement
Funding Details
- Total Available Funding: $750,000 (pending availability of funds)
- Award Structure:
- One award: up to $750,000
- Two awards: up to $325,000 each
Funding covers all program components, including training, virtual engagement, U.S.-based exchanges, and alumni follow-up activities.
Program Structure
Non-U.S. Fellows Component
- Up to 25 participants from Tibetan communities
- Virtual Engagement: Pre-exchange training, leadership workshops, and online networking
- U.S.-Based Exchange: Minimum four-week program including:
- Professional site visits
- Job shadowing
- Business and leadership trainings
- Networking with U.S. companies and partners
U.S. Fellows Component
- Up to 10 American professionals engaged with the Fellows
- Travel to India, Nepal, or Bhutan for ~two weeks
- Activities include:
- Follow-on engagement
- Strengthening cross-border partnerships
- Supporting alumni network development
Strategic Context
The program is funded under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 and aligns with U.S. foreign policy goals by:
- Promoting openness, transparency, and free market values
- Encouraging innovation and economic collaboration
- Building mutual understanding and sustainable international relationships
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include U.S.-based organizations that meet the following criteria:
- Not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, or civil society organizations
- Minimum of four years of experience in conducting international exchange programs
- Valid SAM.gov registration
- Ability to meet all technical and proposal submission requirements
Applicants are responsible for designing and implementing all program components, including virtual and U.S.-based exchanges and alumni engagement.
How to Apply
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organization meets all requirements, including U.S. registration and program experience
- Develop Proposal: Include detailed program design, budget, implementation plan, and measurable outcomes
- Submit Application: Provide complete documentation via the official submission portal
- Program Execution: Implement virtual and U.S.-based exchanges, workshops, and networking activities
- Monitoring & Reporting: Track participant outcomes, engagement metrics, and provide required financial and program reports
Tips for a Strong Application
- Emphasize cross-border collaboration and impact on Tibetan entrepreneurship
- Include clear program structure, timelines, and deliverables
- Demonstrate experience with international exchange programs
- Detail strategies for alumni engagement and long-term partnerships
- Ensure all technical and registration requirements are met
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete proposals or missing documentation
- Failing to demonstrate prior experience in international exchange programs
- Ignoring SAM.gov registration requirements
- Overlooking follow-up activities and alumni network plans
- Neglecting measurable outcomes and reporting mechanisms
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
U.S.-based not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, or civil society organizations with at least four years of international exchange experience.
2. How much funding is available?
Up to $750,000 for one award or $325,000 each for two awards.
3. Who participates in the program?
Up to 25 Tibetan Fellows for the U.S.-based exchange and up to 10 U.S. Fellows for follow-on international activities.
4. What is the duration of the U.S.-based exchange?
Minimum of four weeks for non-U.S. Fellows.
5. Are virtual activities included?
Yes, pre-exchange virtual engagement and training are a core component.
6. What are the reporting requirements?
Applicants must provide financial and programmatic reports, track outcomes, and support alumni engagement activities.
7. Does the program support technology for engagement?
Yes, technology is leveraged to streamline applications, training, networking, and alumni follow-up.
Conclusion
The Ngawang Choephel Fellows Program FY 2026 strengthens Tibetan entrepreneurship, leadership, and cross-border partnerships with the United States. By providing immersive exchange experiences and structured professional development, the program fosters economic growth, U.S.-Tibetan collaboration, and sustainable Indo-Pacific partnerships.
For more information, visit U.S. Department of State.