United States Embassy in Bahrain announces an open competition for past participants (alumni) of U.S. government-funded and U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs to submit applications to the 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026).
AEIF 2026 supports alumni-led projects that advance U.S. foreign policy objectives, strengthen people-to-people ties, and amplify the long-term impact of U.S. exchange programs. Projects must clearly demonstrate how alumni apply skills and networks gained during their exchange experiences to address shared challenges in their communities.
All AEIF projects must celebrate and The promote America’s 250th anniversary and align with policy goals such as making the United States and its partners safer, stronger, and more prosperous.
We seek proposals from teams of at least two exchange alumni that meet all eligibility requirements outlined below. Exchange alumni interested in participating should submit completed applications and all required materials to ManamaPAO@state.gov by COB Thursday, April 30, 2026.
AEIF supports projects proposed and implemented by alumni of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs. Eligible applicants include teams composed of at least two alumni of U.S. exchange programs. Applicants may apply as individuals or through one of the below types of registered organizations: • Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations • Public and private educational institutions• Individuals• Public International Organizations and Governmental institutions Alumni teams may collaborate with organizations or institutions, including civil society organizations, educational institutions, or private sector entities, to implement project activities. However, exchange alumni must lead the project and retain primary responsibility for its design and implementation.Organizations may sub-contract with other entities, but only one, non-profit, non-governmental entity can be the prime recipient of the award. When sub-contracting with other entities, the responsibilities of each entity must be clearly defined in the proposal. For more information on the difference between sub-contract and sub-recipient, please refer to 2 CFR 200.331.
Most applications submitted through Grants.gov need the following. Registration can take several weeks, so start early. The notice lists the exact requirements.