Applications Open for Public Affairs American Center Programme (Trinidad and Tobago)

The U.S. Embassy Port of Spain Public Diplomacy Section is accepting applications for the Public Affairs American Center Funding Programme. The programme offers $6,800 in funding for projects that strengthen U.S.–Trinidad and Tobago partnerships through digital innovation, technology education, cybersecurity, and strategic engagement.

About the Public Affairs American Center Funding Programme

The U.S. Department of State’s Embassy Port of Spain, through its Public Diplomacy Section, has announced the Public Affairs American Center Funding Programme for 2026–2027.

The programme supports projects that advance shared priorities between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago by leveraging the expertise, leadership, and networks of eligible applicants. It encourages initiatives that strengthen digital cooperation, promote innovation, and enhance long-term partnerships.

Programme Objectives

The programme aims to:

Advance U.S. foreign policy objectives.
Counter and reverse competitors’ influence in the region.
Strengthen strategic partnerships between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago.
Promote a shared digital future.
Support digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
Expand cybersecurity awareness and education.
Encourage technology education and workforce development.
Position the United States as Trinidad and Tobago’s preferred partner for digital innovation.

Expected Outcomes

By the end of the project period, funded initiatives should help:

Organize at least two technology-focused programmes.
Reach a minimum of 100 participants.
Engage stakeholders from:
- The technology sector.
- Academic institutions.
- Government agencies.
Strengthen long-term U.S.–Trinidad and Tobago collaboration in digital innovation.

Funding Available

The programme provides:

Award amount: US$6,800
Project duration: Up to 12 months

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

Local individuals.
American individuals.
Non-profit organisations.
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Academic institutions.
Social enterprises.
Public international organisations.
Government institutions.

Preference for Local Organisations

Preference will be given to:

Non-profit organisations headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago.
NGOs based in Trinidad and Tobago.
Academic institutions located in Trinidad and Tobago.
Social enterprises headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago.

U.S.-based organisations may also apply but must demonstrate they have secured on-the-ground support from a local partner organisation.

Application Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate:

Proven experience delivering cultural or educational programmes.
A strong record of successful programme implementation.
Long-term sustainability planning.
Cost-sharing with partner organisations where possible.
Engagement with private sector partners to enhance future sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Public Affairs American Center Funding Programme?

It is a funding opportunity offered by the U.S. Embassy Port of Spain to support projects that strengthen U.S.–Trinidad and Tobago cooperation, particularly in digital innovation, technology, and strategic partnerships.

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include individuals, non-profit organisations, NGOs, academic institutions, social enterprises, governmental institutions, and public international organisations.

How much funding is available?

Successful applicants may receive US$6,800.

What is the project duration?

Projects may be implemented over a period of up to 12 months.

What are the programme’s priority areas?

Priority areas include:

Digital innovation
Cybersecurity
Technology education
Strategic partnerships
U.S. foreign policy objectives
Shared digital future initiatives

Are local organisations given preference?

Yes. Preference is given to eligible non-profit organisations, NGOs, academic institutions, and social enterprises headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago.

Can U.S.-based organisations apply?

Yes. However, they must demonstrate that they have already established support from a local partner organisation in Trinidad and Tobago.

What outcomes are expected from funded projects?

Projects should deliver at least two technology-focused programmes that collectively engage at least 100 participants from government, academia, and the technology sector.

What experience should applicants have?

Applicants should have a proven track record of organising cultural or educational programmes and demonstrate sustainability, partnership development, and private sector engagement.

Is cost-sharing encouraged?

Yes. Applicants are encouraged to include cost-sharing contributions from partner institutions and involve private sector support to strengthen project sustainability.

Conclusion

The Public Affairs American Center Funding Programme provides an opportunity for organisations and individuals to strengthen digital collaboration between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago. By supporting technology education, cybersecurity, innovation, and cross-sector partnerships, the programme aims to build sustainable relationships and position the United States as a trusted partner in the country’s digital future.