Deadline: 15 May 2019
The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad has announced that funding is available through its Public Affair Office (PA) for a job skills development and mentoring program in southern Iraq, targeting Basrah, Dhi Qar, Maysan, and Muthanna. This project will match 60 university and vocational students ages 19-22 with local private sector leaders for a one-year mentorship program.
The program’s objective is to improve the ability of local youth to find employment outside the public sector, including through entrepreneurship. Program elements will include recruitment of participants, a one-day networking and mentoring workshop, structured mentoring activities over a period of eight months, a closing ceremony and workshop, and a networking event for a selection of participants and mentors in Baghdad.
High underemployment continues to be a problem in southern Iraq, particularly for youth. Existing employment opportunities are concentrated primarily in the public sector, constraining local employment options. The Southern Iraq Job Skills Development Program will recruit local business professionals to work with a diverse group of youth to build leadership and professional skills with the goal of increasing their employability in the private sector.
Groups of eight students will work with a local business professional who will provide mentorship and guidance through both formal and informal meetings and conversations. These sessions will mirror topics covered in a self-guided curriculum to reinforce learning and allow students to apply lessons from the material. By the end of the program, participants will be able to:
- Identify viable career options that align with their aptitudes and interests;
- Network effectively in the professional community of southern Iraq.
- Secure jobs in the private sector
Phases
The program will consist of the following phases:
- Phase 1: Curriculum Design, Recruitment, and Mentorship Workshop
- Phase 2: Mentoring/Professional Coaching
- Phase 3: Closing Activities
Award Information
- Award Ceiling: $200,000
- Award Floor: $150,000
Eligible Applicants
- Applications must be submitted by U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3).
- Applicants must:
- Be a U.S. non-profit organization meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c) (3).
- Have demonstrated experience developing and administering similar programs;
- Have the capacity to operate in Iraq and have active partnerships with organization(s) operating in Iraq needed to support the program.
How to Apply
Applicants must download the application form available on the given website.
For more information, please visit https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=314291