The Embassy Small Grant Program 2026, offered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy Praia, supports community initiatives that celebrate American democratic values while strengthening partnerships between the United States and Cabo Verde. The programme is part of the America250 and Freedom250 commemorations marking 250 years of U.S. independence and focuses on projects that promote civic participation, innovation, and inclusive growth.
About the Embassy Small Grant Program 2026
The Embassy Small Grant Program 2026 invites eligible organizations and individuals to design activities that engage youth, educators, entrepreneurs, and wider Cabo Verdean communities. Projects should explore themes connected to American innovation, democratic institutions, civic responsibility, economic opportunity, and freedom of expression. Proposals must clearly include an American element such as collaboration with U.S. experts, institutions, exchange alumni, or content highlighting U.S. history, culture, or governance.
The programme aligns with U.S. priorities in Sub-Saharan Africa by encouraging initiatives that foster shared values, bilateral cooperation, and community engagement around contemporary challenges.
Funding Size
Award minimum: $2,000
Award maximum: $10,000
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants include:
- Not-for-profit organizations, including civil society and non-governmental organizations
- Public and private educational institutions
- Individuals
- Public international organizations and governmental institutions
Geographic Eligibility
Open to applicants working within communities in Cabo Verde.
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Sector or Thematic Focus
Priority areas include:
- Technology and innovation
- Artificial intelligence and digital responsibility
- Cybersecurity awareness and capacity building
- American culture, history, and democratic institutions
- Youth civic engagement and leadership
- Inclusive economic opportunity
All projects must integrate a clear American component.
Application Process
Applicants must submit a proposal following the instructions provided in the official open competition notice from the U.S. Embassy Praia. Proposals should clearly describe objectives, activities, expected outcomes, and a budget aligned with programme priorities.
Required Materials
- Project narrative outlining goals, activities, and expected impact
- Detailed budget and justification
- Organizational profile or CV (for individuals)
- Letters of support or partnership documentation where applicable
- Any additional forms requested in the application guidelines
Key Dates
Application deadline: June 19, 2026
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Selection Notes
Applications are assessed based on relevance to programme themes, feasibility, potential impact, quality of partnerships, and clarity of the American element. Only complete applications from eligible applicants will be considered.