U.S. Embassy Mogadishu Public Affairs Section Annual Program Statement

The U.S. Embassy Mogadishu public affairs section (PAS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This Annual Program Statement outlines funding priorities, strategic themes, and procedures for submitting requests for funding. PAS Mogadishu invites proposals for programs that strengthen cultural ties between the United States and Somalia through cultural and exchange programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element or a connection with American expert(s), organization(s), or institution(s) in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. Examples of Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program activities include but are not limited to: • Academic and professional lectures, seminars, and speaker programs • Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances, and exhibitions • Cultural heritage conservation and preservation programs • Professional and academic exchanges and programs Priority Program Areas: • Countering violent extremism • Encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation • Promoting women’s participation in politics, peacebuilding, and the economy • Professionalizing the media • Promoting freedom of expression • Promoting democracy, good governance, and rule of law • Promoting human rights and civil society • Promoting youth leadership and development • Encouraging awareness of and mitigating the effects of climate change • Improving the teaching and learning of the English language Participants and Audiences: • Somali citizens, especially women and youth • Entrepreneurs and private sector representatives • Journalists and media professionals • Activists and civil society representatives • Academics and teaching professionals • Federal and local government officials The following types of programs are not eligible for funding: • Programs relating to partisan political activity • Charitable or development activities • Construction programs • Programs that support specific religious activities • Fund-raising campaigns • Lobbying for specific legislation or programs • Scientific research • Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization • Programs that duplicate existing programs