Call for Proposals: Transatlantic Partnership Program (Germany)

The U.S. Mission to Germany is inviting proposals for cooperative agreements that strengthen collaboration between the United States and Germany through innovative projects in science, technology, sports diplomacy, democracy, civic engagement, education, and freedom of speech. The program supports initiatives that promote mutual understanding, build sustainable networks, and engage German audiences on shared democratic values and strategic priorities.

Eligible nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in Germany can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $150,000. The program has a total funding pool of $400,000 and aims to support projects with measurable outcomes and long-term impact on U.S.-German relations.

About the U.S.-German Collaboration Grant Program

The U.S. Mission to Germany has launched this cooperative agreement program to support innovative projects that strengthen partnerships between the United States and Germany.

The initiative focuses on activities that encourage:

Bilateral cooperation.
Knowledge exchange.
Democratic engagement.
Innovation and research collaboration.
Cultural and educational connections.
Public dialogue between U.S. and German communities.

The program aims to create meaningful engagement with German audiences while advancing shared values and strategic interests between both countries.

Purpose of the Program

The main goal of this funding opportunity is to support projects that deepen understanding and cooperation between the United States and Germany.

Supported projects should:

Promote dialogue between U.S. and German communities.
Encourage collaboration in priority areas.
Develop sustainable professional and institutional networks.
Increase awareness of shared challenges and opportunities.
Strengthen democratic values and civic participation.

The program encourages creative and forward-looking approaches that address current and future challenges.

Priority Areas for Funding

Proposals should focus on one or more of the following areas:

Science, Technology, and Space Cooperation

Projects may support:

Scientific collaboration.
Technology innovation.
Space-related partnerships.
Research exchange.
Emerging technology discussions.

Sports Diplomacy

Projects may use sports as a tool to:

Build connections between communities.
Encourage teamwork and cultural exchange.
Promote shared values through athletic engagement.

Democracy, Civic Engagement, and Education

Supported initiatives may focus on:

Democratic participation.
Civic education.
Youth engagement.
Public awareness activities.
Educational partnerships.

Freedom of Speech and Countering Anti-Semitism

Projects may address:

Protection of free expression.
Combating misinformation.
Countering anti-Semitism.
Supporting open and inclusive public dialogue.

Exchange Programs and Alumni Impact

Projects may evaluate or strengthen:

International exchange programs.
Alumni networks.
Long-term outcomes of educational and professional exchanges.

Funding Details

The program provides financial support through cooperative agreements.

Key funding information:

Individual award amount: $5,000 to $150,000.
Total program funding: $400,000.
Expected number of awards: Up to four.
Cost sharing requirement: Not required.

Applicants do not need to provide matching funds or financial contributions.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

Registered nonprofit organizations.
Think tanks.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Private educational institutions.
Public educational institutions.

Applicants must:

Have a presence in Germany.
Demonstrate capacity to manage funded projects.
Show experience relevant to the proposed activity.

Individuals and organizations without an eligible institutional structure are not eligible.

Project Requirements

Successful proposals must include:

A clear U.S. component.
Defined German target audiences.
A detailed implementation strategy.
Measurable project objectives.
Plans for sustainable impact.
Methods for evaluating project results.

Projects should demonstrate how activities will contribute to stronger U.S.-German cooperation.

How to Apply

Applicants should prepare a proposal that includes:

Project Description
- Explain the purpose, activities, and expected outcomes.
Target Audience
- Identify German audiences who will participate or benefit.
Implementation Plan
- Describe project timelines, activities, and responsible partners.
Impact Measurement
- Provide measurable indicators to evaluate success.
Sustainability Strategy
- Explain how partnerships, networks, or benefits will continue after funding ends.

Applicants should ensure proposals clearly connect their activities with the goals of U.S.-German collaboration.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

Alignment with program priorities.
Strength of U.S.-German cooperation elements.
Quality and innovation of project design.
Clear objectives and measurable outcomes.
Potential for long-term impact.
Ability to engage relevant audiences.

Competitive proposals will demonstrate practical approaches and lasting benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Submitting projects without a clear U.S. connection.
Failing to identify German target audiences.
Providing unclear goals or outcomes.
Lacking measurable success indicators.
Proposing activities without sustainability plans.
Ignoring the program’s priority areas.

Tips for stronger applications:

Clearly explain how the project benefits U.S.-German relations.
Include realistic timelines and measurable results.
Highlight existing partnerships and networks.
Demonstrate long-term value beyond the grant period.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the purpose of this grant program?
The program supports innovative projects that strengthen cooperation and mutual understanding between the United States and Germany.

Who can apply for funding?
Registered nonprofit organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and educational institutions with a presence in Germany can apply.

How much funding is available per project?
Individual awards range from $5,000 to $150,000.

Is matching funding required?
No. Applicants are not required to provide cost sharing or matching funds.

What types of projects are supported?
Projects related to science, technology, sports diplomacy, democracy, civic engagement, education, freedom of speech, and exchange program impact are eligible.

What makes a proposal competitive?
Strong proposals demonstrate clear U.S.-German cooperation, measurable outcomes, innovative approaches, and sustainable impact.

Can organizations outside Germany apply?
Applicants must have a presence in Germany to be eligible.

Conclusion

The U.S.-German Collaboration Grant Program provides an opportunity for organizations in Germany to develop innovative projects that strengthen partnerships between the two countries. By supporting cooperation in science, technology, democracy, education, and cultural exchange, the program aims to build stronger networks and promote long-term collaboration between U.S. and German communities.