Public Diplomacy Grants Program (Samoa)

PDS Samoa invites Statements of Interest (SOI) for projects that seek to do at least one of the following:

• strengthen U.S.-Samoa cooperation and coordination on global issues of shared interest (e.g. combatting climate change, supporting Indo-Pacific security, promoting diversity and inclusion);
• promote the mutual benefits of tech and innovation; and promote stronger connections between the people of the United States, Samoa, and may include the Pacific Island region if inclusive of Samoa.

All programs must include an element that will promote increased understanding of the United States including, but not limited to U.S. policy, people, culture and/or perspectives.

Examples of PDS Grants Program projects include, but are not limited to:

• Academic and professional lectures, seminars, and speaker programs;
• Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances and exhibitions; or
• Professional and academic exchanges and projects.

Priority Program Areas

• Building Understanding
  • Programs that seek to explain U.S. policies, culture, and values to Samoan audiences resulting in a positive impact on the bilateral relationship. Programs that deepen connections between the United States and Samoa based on the shared values and heritage. (Can include Pacific Islands regional audiences if inclusive of Samoa.)
• A Greener Future
  • Programs that support or promote environmental issues such as, but not limited to: climate change mitigation, food security, biodiversity sustainability, blue/green technology, and youth engagement.
• Partners in a Safer World
  • Programs that support or promote regional issues such as, but not limited to: regional security, cybersecurity, non-proliferation, combatting trans-national crime, responding to global health crises, mis- and disinformation, multilateral cooperation, enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region, human rights, and a rules-based order.
• Economic Development Connections
  • Programs that support or promote economic connections such as, but not limited to: COVID economic recovery, the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, the digital economy, trade diversification and innovation, and regional economic stability and security.
• Connecting the Values
  • Programs that support or promote cross-cultural connections such as, but not limited to: promoting diversity, equality, inclusion and accessibility, supporting underrepresented communities, promoting human rights, supporting shared democratic values, education and exchange opportunities, and combatting mis- and disinformation.

Funding Information

• Length of performance period: Up to 24 months
• Number of awards anticipated: Number of awards issued will be dependent on requested amounts for funding
• Award amounts: Awards may range from a minimum of $500.00 to a maximum of $25,000.00
• Total available funding: $50,000 (subject to availability)
• Type of Funding: Fiscal Year 2024 Public Diplomacy Funding
• Anticipated project start date: From December 1, 2023
• Project Performance Period: Proposed projects should be completed in 2 years or less. PDS will entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.

Participants and Audiences

PDS will only consider grants that are geared to local audiences.

The following types of projects are not eligible for funding:

• Projects relating to partisan political activity;
• Charitable or development activities;
• Construction projects;
• Projects that support specific religious activities;
• Fund-raising campaigns;
• Lobbying for specific legislation or projects
• Scientific research;
• Projects intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization; or
• Projects seeking funds for personal use

Eligibility Criteria

• The Public Diplomacy Section encourages applications from the United States, Samoa, and may consider regional Pacific Islands solicitations if inclusive of Samoa:
  • Governmental institutions
  • Non-profit or governmental educational institutions
  • Individuals
  • Registered not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/nongovernmental organizations with programming experience
  • For-profit or commercial entities are not eligible to apply.
• Cost Sharing or Matching
  • Cost sharing is not required although encouraged.

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