Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka is inviting proposals for the Freedom 250 Public Engagement Initiative to mark 250 years of American independence through public engagement activities across Bangladesh. Eligible not-for-profit organizations, CSOs, think tanks, alumni associations, and educational institutions can apply for grants of up to US$50,000, with up to five awards expected for projects running through December 31, 2026.
Overview
The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka has launched the Freedom 250 Public Engagement Initiative to commemorate 250 years of American independence through public-facing programs across Bangladesh.
The initiative aims to raise awareness of American culture, innovation, and leadership while strengthening U.S.-Bangladesh cultural, economic, and strategic ties through dynamic outreach activities.
Purpose of the Initiative
The program seeks to support innovative, small-scale public diplomacy programming that:
- Increases awareness of American history and culture
- Highlights American excellence, innovation, and leadership
- Expands engagement with people and organizations that already have U.S. ties
- Builds new partnerships across Bangladesh
- Reinforces broader U.S.-Bangladesh bilateral relations
It is funded through FY26 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds.
Funding Amount
The Embassy expects to award:
- Up to 5 grants
- Up to US$50,000 per award
Funding is subject to availability.
Project Duration
Selected projects may run for:
- Up to 10 months
Expected Timeline
- Estimated start date: Around June 1, 2026
- End date: December 31, 2026
Suggested Activities
Proposals may include a range of public engagement activities across Bangladesh.
Examples include:
- Festivals
- Traveling exhibits
- Educational materials
- Microgrants
- Community celebrations reflecting American traditions
- Public events featuring:
- American athletes
- Cultural figures
- Innovators
- Subject-matter experts
- Outreach on U.S.-Bangladesh partnerships in:
- Business
- Science
- Technology
- Community service initiatives involving Americans and Bangladeshis
- Programs using American Spaces
- Freedom 250-branded promotional and outreach materials
America Week Programming
The Embassy specifically notes activities during America Week:
- July 1–7, 2026
Potential locations include major cities such as:
- Dhaka
- Chattogram
- Rajshahi
- Sylhet
Who Can Apply?
Eligible Applicants
The following are eligible:
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Civil society organizations (CSOs)
- Think tanks
- Alumni associations
- Public educational institutions
- Private educational institutions
Ineligible Applicants
- For-profit entities are not eligible
Role of the Selected Partner
The selected implementing partner will be expected to:
- Manage event logistics
- Develop a comprehensive calendar of activities
- Coordinate closely with the U.S. Embassy
- Create Freedom 250-branded outreach materials
- Support invited participants with:
- Travel arrangements
- Related logistics
U.S. Embassy Involvement
The Embassy will have substantial involvement in implementation.
This includes:
- Guidance on priority locations
- Approval of participants
- Approval of materials
- Coordination to ensure alignment with Freedom 250 goals
So this is not a fully independent grant—projects must be designed for close coordination with the Embassy.
Why This Grant Matters
This is a strong opportunity for organizations in Bangladesh that work in public engagement, cultural programming, education, diplomacy, or youth outreach.
It is especially useful for groups that can:
- Deliver multi-city public events
- Build high-visibility cultural programming
- Engage existing U.S.-connected networks
- Manage logistics for speakers, exhibits, and branded campaigns
- Work closely with an embassy-led public diplomacy framework
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Freedom 250 Public Engagement Initiative?
It is a U.S. Embassy Dhaka grant program supporting public engagement activities in Bangladesh to celebrate 250 years of American independence.
How much funding is available?
The Embassy expects to award up to five grants, with up to US$50,000 per grant.
How long can projects run?
Projects can run for up to 10 months, likely starting around June 1, 2026 and ending by December 31, 2026.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include not-for-profits, CSOs, think tanks, alumni associations, and public or private educational institutions.
Are for-profit organizations eligible?
No. For-profit entities are not eligible.
What kinds of activities are encouraged?
Examples include festivals, traveling exhibits, educational outreach, microgrants, community events, expert visits, America Week programming, and American Spaces-based activities.
Conclusion
The U.S. Embassy Dhaka Freedom 250 Public Engagement Initiative is a valuable opportunity for organizations in Bangladesh to design creative, public-facing programs celebrating American independence and U.S.-Bangladesh ties. With grants of up to US$50,000, a project period of up to 10 months, and strong Embassy collaboration, this opportunity is well suited for organizations experienced in cultural diplomacy, outreach, events, and public engagement.
For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh.