AEIF provides alumni of U.S. government-sponsored and facilitated exchange programs with funding to expand on skills gained during their exchange experience to design and implement innovative solutions to global challenges facing their community. Since its inception in 2011, AEIF has funded nearly 500 alumni-led projects around the world through a competitive global competition. This year, the U.S. Embassy will accept public service projects proposed by local USG Alumni organizations and managed by teams of at least two (2) alumni which directly support the Embassy’s goals and foreign policy objectives, promote shared interests, and benefit local communities. This year, AEIF 2025 will support United States’ commitment to “Deepen North Macedonia’s democracy and implementation of reforms to improve its reliability and capability as a U.S. partner”. Proposals are expected to address a specific theme such as: • Reinforcing democratic values; • Promoting rule of law and anti-corruption; • Increasing social cohesion among groups; • Empowering tomorrow’s leaders; • Supporting North Macedonia’s energy independence; • Cyber Security and Combating Malign Propaganda; • Fostering civic responsibility, public service, or community-driven change, especially in local communities; • Promoting cross-cultural understanding, celebrating heritage, culture, and/or arts as a catalyst for progress; and • Fostering ties between North Macedonia and U.S.A. Proposals must address at minimum one of the themes listed here. Proposals that do not address the theme as outlined in the program objectives will be deemed ineligible. All project activities must take place outside of the United States and its territories. Participants and Audiences Applicants should clearly define specific, realistic, target audience(s). Broad target audiences such as the general public, youth, everyone, etc., should be avoided. Audiences who are considered a priority for grants funded under this NOFO are: Youth and young adult leaders between 13 and 30 years; Community leaders and local officials; Teachers and academic professionals; and Local communities. Please note that proposals addressing audiences not listed above can still be eligible, but such proposals must clearly indicate why addressing the proposed audience is especially important to achieving the goals stated in this NOFO.