U.S. Embassy Islamabad PAS Grants Program

Funding is available for projects that increase the scope, capacity, and participation of civil society in building up the media and communications sectors in Pakistan, that support and develop Pakistani voices and new leaders capable of increasing community engagement, and that support civil society and boost institutional capacity. Grant proposals should aim to create or extend the community of reform-minded individuals and groups and should meet one or more of the following U.S. embassy public affairs priorities: 1. Expanding Media Outreach, by funding programs that: * foster expanded outreach capabilities of Pakistani government institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), women's groups, and professional associations at the grassroots level; * encourage use of new media and social networking to reach a wider audience, including new leaders in all fields; * support radio programming in local languages at the provincial and district level; * and sponsor traditional media training programs as well as instruction in blogging and other social networking mechanisms.2. Strengthening People-to-People Ties, by funding programs that: * support the Pakistani educational system; support civil society, and empower organizations and individuals that promote a robust civil society; * support the promotion of local cultural heritage, traditional and modern art forms, and other forms of creative expression; * provide exchange opportunities and expose a greater number of Pakistanis to different perspectives through regional and international exchanges; * and foster English language proficiency by providing English language programs and resources to reach a wider audience.3. Increase community engagement by funding programs which: * develop and support credible local broadcast content; * counter insurgency falsehoods, messaging, and propaganda; promote national unity; * present accurate information on U.S.-Pakistan cooperation; * support and develop Pakistani voices and new leaders; * provide educational and recreational opportunities for Pakistani youth.