Deadline: 20-Aug-2025
The U.S. Mission to Canada is offering funding opportunities through its Public Diplomacy Grants Program. This program supports creative initiatives that highlight American expertise and U.S.-Canada cooperation in historical and contemporary contexts, aiming to promote shared interests, innovation, security, and the upcoming America250 commemoration.
Programs should align with U.S. administration priorities by contributing to national safety, strength, and prosperity. They must also enhance the U.S. Mission’s relationships with key Canadian stakeholders, deepen bilateral cooperation, and increase understanding of U.S. policy, culture, and history. Ideal projects will build cross-border ties, share knowledge, and empower future leaders.
Funding priorities include innovation and emerging technologies, with a focus on artificial intelligence, STEM, cybersecurity, and space exploration. Projects could involve workshops, hackathons, or awareness campaigns that drive collaboration and inspire future talent. Defense and security efforts are also a priority, especially those related to NATO, NORAD modernization, Arctic security, and countering cybersecurity threats.
Programs targeting border security should address issues such as fentanyl trafficking and human trafficking through awareness campaigns, expert speaker series, and cultural initiatives that encourage dialogue and cooperation. Another key area is the commemoration of America250, where projects should honor the U.S.-Canada relationship through exhibitions, cultural performances, or academic events reflecting shared democratic values and history.
The program also supports strengthening networks through educational, cultural, and professional partnerships, particularly those that leverage major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026. These efforts should spotlight collaboration and shared achievements across sectors like sports, innovation, and culture.
Grants range from $15,000 to $100,000, with a performance period of up to 18 months. Programs must target Canadian audiences and ideally have national reach. They should promote mutual understanding, address shared challenges, and include visible public components such as events or media campaigns. A clear U.S. connection—through collaboration with American experts or institutions—must be part of the proposal.
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, think tanks, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and individuals based in the U.S. or Canada. Ineligible activities include partisan politics, religious events, construction, fundraising, lobbying, and scientific research.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.
