NOFO: Operation and Management of the Edward M. Kennedy Center (Bangladesh)

Deadline: 30-Jun-2026

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, is offering a funding opportunity to manage the Edward M. Kennedy Center for Public Service. The grant supports public diplomacy, cultural exchange, and professional development programs to strengthen U.S.–Bangladesh engagement.

Program Overview

This cooperative agreement supports the full operational management of the EMK Center in Bangladesh for up to 12 months. The selected organization will deliver programs aligned with U.S. public diplomacy goals, focusing on education, cultural exchange, and skills development.

The funding range is between $450,000 and $550,000, with no cost-sharing requirement. The initiative is administered under the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka.

Key Objectives

• Strengthen U.S.–Bangladesh bilateral relations through public engagement
• Position EMK Center and American Spaces as trusted information hubs
• Expand access to U.S. education, culture, and values
• Increase participation of emerging Bangladeshi leaders
• Deliver high-impact skills development programs

Focus Areas

• English language learning and communication skills
• EducationUSA advising and U.S. higher education awareness
• STEM, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies
• Public speaking, debate, and digital media
• Cultural programming and alumni engagement

About the EMK Center

The Edward M. Kennedy Center for Public Service is part of the global American Spaces network, with over 700 centers worldwide.

It serves as:

• A platform for cultural exchange and learning
• A hub for youth and professional development
• A center for U.S. information and engagement
• A collaboration space for U.S. government initiatives

Roles and Responsibilities

The selected organization will:

• Manage daily operations and administration
• Supervise staff and maintain facilities
• Deliver EducationUSA services
• Implement in-person and virtual programs
• Maintain technology infrastructure
• Ensure high-quality audience engagement

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Not-for-profit organizations
• Think tanks and civil society organizations
• Private educational institutions
• Public international organizations

Requirements:

• Must be registered on SAM.gov
• Must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
• Only one proposal per organization allowed

Not eligible:

• Individuals
• For-profit entities

Funding Scope and Restrictions

• Funding covers operational and program delivery costs
• No cost-sharing required

Not supported:

• Political campaigns
• Religious activities
• Fundraising or lobbying
• Construction projects
• Scientific research
• Commercial ventures

How to Apply

1. Review eligibility criteria and program requirements
2. Register on SAM.gov and obtain a UEI
3. Prepare a detailed proposal including:
   • Organizational capacity
   • Program design and implementation plan
   • Budget justification
4. Ensure alignment with U.S. public diplomacy objectives
5. Submit one complete proposal within the deadline

Why This Matters

• Strengthens international cooperation and diplomacy
• Expands access to education and professional opportunities
• Builds leadership capacity among youth
• Promotes cultural understanding and global engagement
• Supports economic and knowledge exchange between countries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting multiple proposals from the same organization
• Lack of alignment with public diplomacy goals
• Weak program design or unclear outcomes
• Missing SAM.gov registration or UEI
• Including ineligible activities in the proposal

FAQ

1. What is the duration of the program?
The agreement is for up to 12 months.

2. How much funding is available?
Between $450,000 and $550,000.

3. Is cost-sharing required?
No, cost-sharing is not required.

4. Who can apply?
Non-profits, think tanks, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and international organizations.

5. Can individuals apply?
No, individuals are not eligible.

6. What types of activities are supported?
Education, cultural exchange, STEM programs, and professional development.

7. What registrations are mandatory?
SAM.gov registration and a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

Conclusion

This opportunity enables organizations to lead a flagship public diplomacy platform in Bangladesh. By managing the EMK Center, the selected applicant will play a critical role in advancing education, cultural exchange, and bilateral cooperation between the United States and Bangladesh.

For more information, visit Grants.gov.