NOFO: Navigating Technological Risk in the Age of AI (Peru)

The conference should emphasize the systemic risks associated with the widespread adoption of non-U.S. technologies, including concerns related to data security, surveillance, and technological dependence. Strong proposals will align with U.S. priorities for a safer, stronger, and more prosperous United States and shared region.

This funding opportunity recognizes the unique role of universities as centers of research, critical thinking, and public engagement. It aims to strengthen their position as conveners of expert dialogue and trusted providers of evidence-based insights that inform policy, shape practice, and foster cross-sector collaboration.

Participating institutions must invite U.S. business leaders, AI and technology experts, and thought leaders to address a broad academic audience. Proposals should encourage interdisciplinary engagement with stakeholders from fields such as national security, public administration, healthcare, infrastructure, communications, and education. The discussion should explore both the opportunities and vulnerabilities presented by emerging technologies—especially AI—and equip Peruvian decision-makers with tools to evaluate long-term risks and partnerships.

Objectives

• This program aims to empower universities and their partners to lead and shape national conversations about the responsible use of emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence (AI). Grantees should propose activities that address the following core objectives:
  • Strengthen Academic Leadership: Support universities in becoming visible leaders on issues like AI, digital sovereignty, data protection, and ethical technology use. Institutions should position AI as both a powerful tool and a potential strategic risk.
  • Raise Awareness Across Sectors: Expand understanding among government, business, and civil society leaders about the risks of relying on non-U.S. technologies—particularly AI platforms and digital infrastructure that may compromise ethical norms or cybersecurity.
  • Foster U.S.-Peru Collaboration: Promote lasting academic and professional partnerships between Peruvian and U.S. universities, tech firms, and research organizations committed to responsible, secure technology development.
  • Promote Evidence-Based Policy: Encourage research-informed debate and public dialogue around AI and emerging technologies to equip Peruvian decision-makers with credible, academic insights that support sound technology policy.

Funding Information

• Grant amount: up to $40,000 USD
• Duration: up to 12 months

Program Requirements

• Conference must feature invited U.S. business leaders, researchers, or technology experts.
• Participants should include representatives from academia, government, civil society, and strategic industries.
• Conference themes must address risks of non-U.S. technologies in areas such as cybersecurity, surveillance, data privacy, infrastructure reliability, and digital governance.

Eligibility Criteria

• Accredited public or private universities.
• Institutions must demonstrate capacity to organize a national-level academic event with multi-sector relevance.

Ineligibility Criteria

• For-profit entities or individuals
• Non-academic organizations without formal affiliation to a university.

Evaluation Criteria

• Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
  • Strategic Relevance: The extent to which the proposal addresses national-level concerns about the adoption of non-U.S. technologies across multiple sectors (e.g., public administration, education, defense, communications, and industry).
  • Impact and Reach: The anticipated breadth and depth of the conference’s impact – especially in informing decision-makers, shaping academic discourse, and fostering public awareness.
  • Institutional Capacity: Demonstrated ability of the applicant to organize a high-profile, multi-stakeholder academic event, manage U.S. government funds, and deliver measurable results.
  • U.S. Engagement Potential: The institution’s ability to initiate or strengthen collaborations with Peru and U.S. universities, research institutions, private sector actors, or technology experts.  Priority will be given to proposals that reflect a clear strategy for deepening bilateral academic or professional ties.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Clear and reasonable allocation of resources aligned with program objectives and deliverables.
  • Sustainability and Follow-Up: Potential for continued engagement, knowledge dissemination, or institutional policy changes following the event.

Application Requirements

• Proposal Narrative (6 pages max): The narrative should provide sufficient detail to ensure that reviewers unfamiliar with the project can fully understand the applicant’s objectives. It must include the conference theme, goals, target audiences, a list of proposed speakers or partners, a timeline, and anticipated outcomes.
• Budget and Justification (in USD): Clear breakdown of expenses.
• Institutional Profile: Demonstrating experience with similar events or international grants.
• Letters of Support: From proposed U.S. participants or affiliated institutions.
• Monitoring and Evaluation Plan: To measure conference reach and impact.

For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in Peru.