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Closed on May 26, 2026

FY 2026 America First U.S. Speaker Program

Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs · Opportunity number DFOP0017995

Details summarized from the official notice as of May 27, 2026. Always confirm eligibility, deadlines and requirements in the official notice before applying.

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This opportunity is closed as of May 26, 2026. It is kept here for reference. See the related open opportunities below, or check the official listing in case the agency posts a new cycle.

Key facts

Opportunity numberDFOP0017995
AgencyBureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs
Department of State
Assistance listing (ALN, formerly CFDA)19.440
PostedMar 26, 2026
DeadlineMay 26, 2026
Award ceiling$2,736,259
Award floor$2,736,259
Expected number of awards1
Cost sharing or matching requiredNo
Funding typeCooperative agreement
CategoryOther
Last updated hereMay 27, 2026

Summary from the notice

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition to support the FY 2026 America First U.S. Speaker Program. Through this cooperative agreement, ECA will support approximately 580 programs, 360 in-person and 220 virtual, engaging key interlocutors from all regions of the world.

 

The U.S. Speaker Program is a nimble, rapid response public diplomacy tool that for more than 40 years has built lasting relationships between U.S. citizen experts and foreign decision-makers and other professional interlocutors that serve Administration priorities and the American people.  Programs will focus on America First priorities such as energy security, critical minerals, commercial diplomacy, freedom of expression, digital freedom, and AI. The program recruits experienced American experts from across the United States for in-person and/or virtual exchanges that advance America First priorities. Through the program, American professionals establish and sustain linkages with key foreign audiences and institutions, which directly contribute to economic opportunities for Americans.  The program works with U.S. embassies and consulates to produce impactful in-person programs ranging from three days to three weeks in length; and virtual programs, which can take place on a single date and time and/or may be part of a continuing series.  Programmatic formats include lectures, workshops, seminars, and training series.


Please see the announcement for additional information.

Who can apply

The official notice lists these applicant types as eligible:

  • Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than colleges)
  • Public and state colleges and universities
  • Others named in the notice (see the eligibility text)
  • Private colleges and universities

Who should take a closer look

  • Nonprofits
  • Colleges and universities

Not listed as eligible

  • Small businesses
  • State governments
  • Local governments
  • Tribal governments and organizations
  • Larger for-profit companies
  • Individuals

Unless the eligibility text in the notice names you, this opportunity is probably not for you.

Eligibility details from the notice

Please see announcement.

Registrations you will likely need

Most applications submitted through Grants.gov need the following. Registration can take several weeks, so start early. The notice lists the exact requirements.

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