Deadline: 06-Jul-2026
The U.S. Department of State is inviting applications for the YSEALI Summit 2026 to strengthen regional security, economic resilience, and U.S.–ASEAN partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region. The summit will bring together emerging Southeast Asian leaders and exchange alumni to develop collaborative initiatives focused on maritime security, cyber security, energy protection, and resilient economic systems.
The programme will be held in Manila and offers funding between $200,000 and $300,000 for projects lasting 12 to 15 months. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, educational institutions, think tanks, NGOs, and public international organizations.
About the Programme
The YSEALI Summit 2026 aims to:
- Strengthen regional cooperation
- Promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific
- Support economic resilience
- Build long-term U.S.–ASEAN partnerships
- Develop future regional leaders
The summit focuses on:
- Leadership development
- Alumni engagement
- Regional security collaboration
- Public diplomacy and outreach
The programme seeks to position the United States as:
- A key partner for regional security and economic opportunity
Key Focus Areas
The programme supports initiatives related to:
- Maritime security
- Cyber security
- Information security
- Energy infrastructure protection
- Secure supply chains
- Economic resilience
- Regional peace and stability
- Leadership and exchange programmes
- ASEAN-U.S. partnerships
- Social media engagement
Projects should promote:
- A free and open Indo-Pacific
- Regional collaboration
- Long-term resilience and security
Summit Objectives
The summit aims to:
- Equip emerging leaders with security and resilience knowledge
- Encourage alumni-led regional initiatives
- Strengthen understanding of U.S. regional priorities
- Build partnerships across Southeast Asia
Participants are expected to:
- Develop initiatives supporting maritime, cyber, and energy security
- Promote economic resilience
- Strengthen regional cooperation networks
Programme Activities
The initiative plans to:
- Engage at least 200 students through in-person activities
- Collaborate with at least 5 U.S. companies
- Generate one million organic social media views
The summit will include:
- Leadership sessions
- Networking opportunities
- Regional dialogue
- Collaborative project development
- Industry engagement activities
Funding Details
Award range:
- $200,000 to $300,000
Total available funding:
- $300,000
Project duration:
- 12 to 15 months
Funding availability:
- Subject to availability of funds
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Think tanks
- Civil society organizations
- Non-governmental organizations
- Public educational institutions
- Private educational institutions
- Public international organizations
- Governmental institutions
Eligible Region
The programme focuses on:
- The Indo-Pacific region
- Southeast Asia
- U.S.–ASEAN cooperation
The summit will take place in:
- Manila
Why This Programme Matters
The Indo-Pacific region faces growing challenges related to:
- Regional security
- Cyber threats
- Supply chain resilience
- Energy security
- Economic stability
The programme helps:
- Strengthen regional leadership
- Encourage cross-border collaboration
- Build trusted international partnerships
- Empower future changemakers and policymakers
It also supports:
- Youth leadership
- Regional dialogue
- Long-term peace and prosperity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is offering the programme?
The initiative is offered by:
- U.S. Department of State
Where will the summit be held?
The summit will take place in:
- Manila
What are the main focus areas?
The programme focuses on:
- Maritime security
- Cyber security
- Economic resilience
- Energy protection
- Regional cooperation
How much funding is available?
Award amounts range from:
- $200,000 to $300,000
How long can projects run?
Projects may last:
- 12 to 15 months
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- NGOs
- Educational institutions
- Think tanks
- Public international organizations
- Governmental institutions
What is YSEALI?
YSEALI stands for:
- Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative
Conclusion
The YSEALI Summit 2026 provides significant support for initiatives that strengthen regional security, economic resilience, and leadership development across Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific. Through funding, collaboration, and exchange opportunities, the programme aims to empower emerging leaders and deepen long-term partnerships between ASEAN communities and the United States.
For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in the Philippines.