Benin hosts a dynamic network of U.S. government exchange program alumni, trained in innovation, leadership, business, civic engagement, and emerging technologies. This alumni network offers significant potential to drive national development and advance U.S. foreign policy objectives, particularly by expanding commercial opportunities for U.S. businesses in Benin.To capitalize on this potential, U.S. Embassy Cotonou is launching an initiative in honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary (“Freedom 250”). The initiative invites alumni to propose projects that mobilize their network to train and mentor Beninese youth (ages 18–35) in two key areas: (1) technology and entrepreneurship, and (2) civic engagement and leadership. The primary audiences are U.S. exchange alumni, university students, early-stage entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and emerging civic leaders. The project’s overarching goal is to leverage alumni expertise to empower Beninese youth with critical skills, thereby advancing U.S. foreign policy, strengthening bilateral relations, and fostering economic growth and democratic participation.
U.S. Embassy Cotonou AEIF FY2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity
U.S. Mission to Benin · Opportunity number OFOP0002524
Details summarized from the official notice as of Apr 23, 2026. Always confirm eligibility, deadlines and requirements in the official notice before applying.
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Key facts
| Opportunity number | OFOP0002524 |
|---|---|
| Agency | U.S. Mission to Benin Department of State |
| Assistance listing (ALN, formerly CFDA) | 19.022 |
| Posted | Mar 23, 2026 |
| Deadline | Apr 22, 2026 |
| Award ceiling | $35,000 |
| Award floor | $5,000 |
| Expected number of awards | 50 |
| Cost sharing or matching required | Yes |
| Funding type | Grant |
| Category | Other |
| Last updated here | Apr 23, 2026 |
Summary from the notice
Who can apply
The official notice lists these applicant types as eligible:
- Others named in the notice (see the eligibility text)
Not listed as eligible
- Small businesses
- Nonprofits
- Colleges and universities
- 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
Registered not-for-profit Alumni organizations Alumni on an individual basis
Cost sharing: this notice requires cost sharing or matching funds. Check the notice for the required share and what counts toward it.
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.
- SAM.gov registration for your organization, which also gives you a Unique Entity ID (UEI). Registration is free.
- A Login.gov account, which Grants.gov uses for sign-in.
- A Grants.gov applicant registration linked to your organization's UEI.
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