Deadline: 3-Jul-25
The U.S. Embassy Colombo, Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) is pleased to announce a funding opportunity through the Public Diplomacy Grants program for support of American Spaces in Sri Lanka.
The U.S. Embassy Colombo, Public Diplomacy Section (PDS), has announced a funding opportunity under the Public Diplomacy grants program to support American Spaces in Sri Lanka.
This initiative consists of two interconnected awards issued through Cooperative Agreements, which require substantial involvement and assistance from the PDS. A single grantee will be selected to implement both awards, and they may choose to sub-award or provide sub-grants to help manage American Space operations during the grant period.
The program duration will be between 24 to 30 months, and applicants must submit budget proposals covering the first year for each award.
A formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the grantee and the U.S. Embassy Colombo’s Public Diplomacy Section will be required. This MOU will define the roles and responsibilities of each party, including the host institution’s commitment to provide the venue space at no cost. The location of each American Space is determined by the host institution.
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, such as NGOs, think tanks, and educational institutions (public or private). For-profit organizations are not eligible. At least one applicant must be registered in Sri Lanka, and only one application per organization will be accepted. Organizations submitting more than one application will be disqualified.
The selected recipient will manage both administrative and programmatic support functions for two American Spaces, including the American Corner in Jaffna. Responsibilities will include staffing, facility management, community outreach, facility upkeep, and equipment maintenance.
The grantee must also design and deliver programming in coordination with PDS, focusing on themes such as U.S.–Sri Lanka cultural understanding, youth leadership, democracy, human rights, women and youth empowerment, STEAM education, literacy, entrepreneurship, media awareness, and English language learning. A transition period of up to two months from the current implementer may be required to ensure continuity.
Applicants must be not-for-profit entities registered in Sri Lanka, and while sub-contracting is permitted, only one eligible organization can be the primary applicant. Government institutions and individuals are not eligible.
The total available funding is $150,000. Individual award amounts will range from $80,000 to $150,000 under Cooperative Agreements.
There is no requirement for cost-sharing or matching funds. The initial performance period will be one year, with potential for two additional 12-month extensions based on performance and availability of funds.
Applications should be submitted via the official grants portal. For further information or questions, applicants may contact the Public Diplomacy Section directly.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.
