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State, U.S. Department of - 2009 Fellowships in the Arts: Documentary Filmmaking and Iraq Museum Residencies

The Cultural Programs Division of the Office of Citizen Exchanges in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for two Cooperative Agreements to support programs for short residency and training programs in the United States for emerging and mid-career documentary filmmakers from around the world and museum specialists from Iraq. The Bureau anticipates that approximately $900,000 will be available to support this competition. Grantees will design, develop, and implement 30-60 day programs in the United States for the selected participants, individually or in small groups. Each program should be built around a residency experience, which may be supplemented by other program elements designed to enhance and expand upon the activities of the residency.

The two project themes for which the Bureau will accept proposals under this competition are as follows: 1. Documentary Filmmaker Fellowship Program (not to exceed $400,000) and 2) Iraq Museum Professional Residency Program (not to exceed $500,000)

Specific program requirements and additional information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/media/pdfs/rfgps/rfgp05122009.pdf

Most recent internal deadline: May 4, 2009.

Most recent external deadline: May 12, 2009.

State, U.S. Department of - Access Teacher Development Online Program

The Office of English Language Programs of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA/A/L) announces an open competition for the Access Teacher Development Online Program (ATDOP), including online distance education, a U.S. exchange component in summer 2012 and a follow-on program for exchange participants. The award level for this cooperative agreement will be up to $900,000. The purpose of this program is to increase the oral and aural proficiency of English as a foreign language teachers while developing their speaking and listening teaching methods.

U.S. public and private universities with graduate TESOL or Applied Linguistics programs meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to implement the program that will include the following:

a teacher needs analysis survey and English language proficiency assessment plan to be administered at the beginning and end of the online program;
a multi-platform online distance education program developed in collaboration with selected English Access Microscholarship Program (Access) providers and designed to improve the oral/aural English Language proficiency and teaching methodologies of 250-350 Access and potential Access teachers working with 14-18 year olds;
a four-week, U.S. exchange program for 26 of the top performing participants from the online courses;
a five-week online follow-up course designed to assist the 26 teachers in developing and implementing professional development seminars for English teachers in their respective countries;
the creation of an on-going online community via a Ning site where Access teachers and in-country providers can continue to communicate and collaborate.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=93333
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

Eligible applicants may not submit more than one proposal in this competition. If more than one proposal is received from the same applicant, all submissions will be declared technically ineligible and will receive no further consideration in the review process.

Because the Department of State only allows an applicant to submit one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, May 23, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is June 4, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Afghanistan Counternarcotics Program

The United States Government, represented by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office of Afghanistan and Pakistan (INL/AP), seeks proposals for projects that will reduce narcotics cultivation, use, or trafficking in Afghanistan, enhance public awareness about narcotics issues among the Afghan public (including youth), or further scientific, legal, or technical knowledge of narcotics in Afghanistan. The specific program areas are Illicit Crop Monitoring (developing research and survey methods, including through GIS systems), Counternarcotics Public Information and Awareness; Youth Engagement, Promoting Licit Livelihoods and Reducing Reliance on Illicit Crops, and Law Enforcement and Regional Cooperation.

INL anticipates making several awards of up to $10,000,000 for projects of varying periods according to the scope of the project.

The Department of State will accept up to three (3) proposals per organization under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=187773

Internal Notification: Due to the organizational limits for this RFP, interested applicants must notify the Proposal Development Office (PDO@uky.edu or 257-2861) of intent to apply by Friday, August 10, 2012.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is August 30, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Afghanistan Elections Programming

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) solicits proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Afghanistan. The Bureau’s Human Rights and Democracy Fund (HRDF) supports innovative, “venture capital” programs that uphold democratic principles, support and strengthen democratic institutions, promote human rights, and build civil society in countries and regions of the world geo-strategically important to the U.S. HRDF funds projects that have the potential to have an immediate impact leading to long-term sustainable reforms; projects should have potential for continued funding beyond HRDF resources.

The bulk of project activities must target the requested country and last between 1 and 3 years. U.S.-based activities, study tours, scholarships or exchange projects will not be deemed competitive. Projects that have a strong academic, research, conference, or dialogue focus will not be deemed competitive. The Bureau strongly discourages health, technology, or scientific projects unless they have an explicit component related to the requested program objectives listed above. Projects that focus on commercial law or economic development will also not be rated as competitive.

Approximately $700,000 is available for elections-related programming in Afghanistan. To support program and administrative costs required for implementation, the Bureau anticipates making awards in the amounts of $250,000 - $700,000 for democracy, human rights, and rule of law programs. Proposals that request less than the award floor or more than the award ceiling may be deemed technically ineligible.

Further information can be found at in the complete announcement: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/120787.htm

Most recent internal deadline: April 1, 2009.

Most recent external deadline: April 14, 2009.

State, U.S. Department of - Afghanistan Prisoner Rehabilitation Programs

This initiative will support programming activities that improve conditions and post-release outcomes for incarcerated populations in Afghanistan. Activities might include, but are not limited to the following components:

Vocational Programs – activities that teach inmates locally-appropriate job skills (e.g., carpet weaving, metal works, sewing/tailoring, baking, auto mechanics).
Industries Programs – activities that generate income for the prison through the activities of inmates (e.g., carpet weaving, metal works, sewing/tailoring, baking, carpentry, agriculture, animal husbandry/livestock).
Agricultural Programs – activities that produce nutritious food for use at the prison using locally-appropriate, sustainable techniques (e.g. crop cultivation, animal husbandry/livestock).
Educational Programs – subject matter might include, but is not limited to, literacy, mathematics, English language, and computer skills.

Limited Submission: Applicant organizations may submit up to five (5) proposals.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=206233

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is December 7, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Afghanistan Vulnerable Incarcerated Populations

The Department of State Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office for Afghanistan and Pakistan, (INL/AP) requests proposals for cooperative agreements that meet the following objectives:

Improve the conditions for women in prison in Afghanistan as well as the ability of women in Afghan corrections institutions to safely establish themselves in society after their release and meet their families’ basic needs.
Improve the conditions for juveniles in prison in Afghanistan as well as the ability of the Afghan corrections system to rehabilitate juvenile offenders so they can transition to more productive, peaceful lives.

INL anticipates making several awards ranging from $100,000 to $3,000,000 for a 12- 36 month performance period.

The Department of State will accept five (5) proposals per organization under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=187713

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is September 10, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - American Film Showcase – Contemporary Voices in Documentary and Fiction Film

The Cultural Programs Division of the Office of Citizen Exchanges in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for a cooperative agreement to administer the “American Film Showcase - Contemporary Voices in Documentary and Fiction Film.” Through this program, ECA seeks to bring award-winning independent American documentaries and narrative films to audiences around the world to offer contemporary new insights into American life and culture and issues affecting democratic societies. The films and their filmmakers will be showcased at international venues, including U.S. Embassy-organized events and/or U.S. Embassy-supported international documentary and feature film festivals. This program will provide for travel by documentary and feature filmmakers and film experts in conjunction with public presentation of the films overseas. In addition to presentations, American filmmakers and film experts will be expected to conduct or participate in master classes, workshops, lectures and other outreach activities designed for a variety of audiences, with a focus on younger and underserved audiences. The classes are expected to include filmmaking workshops and training in digital technology, emergent media, and creative use of social media. The Showcase also will provide for follow-up programming that could include return visits overseas by American filmmakers or visits by young foreign filmmakers to the United States.

Further information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Eligible applicants may submit only ONE proposal in response to this request. If multiple proposals are received, all submissions will be declared technically ineligible and will be given no further consideration in the review process.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 25, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - American Youth Leadership Program

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for the American Youth Leadership Program. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting may submit proposals to implement a short-term exchange program for American high school students and educators that will enable the participants to gain firsthand knowledge of foreign cultures and to collaborate on solving global issues.

The program activities will also focus on one of the following four themes that can be examined for both local and global impact:

The role of the media
The environment and climate change
Food security and nutrition
Science and technology

The FY 2010 American Youth Leadership Program will focus on specific countries according to the guidelines below.

1) Single-Country Projects. Applicants may submit one proposal to conduct one OR two separate exchange projects, each of which sends American participants to one of the following countries:

Bahrain
Bangladesh
Cambodia
Japan
Kenya
Mongolia
Namibia
Norway

2) Multi-Country Projects. Applicants may propose to conduct one exchange project that sends American participants to each country in one of the following groupings:

Bulgaria and Romania
Costa Rica and Panama
Fiji and Samoa (including Tonga is optional)
Kazakhstan and Tajikistan

Organizations may apply for one single-country project, two single-country projects, or one multi-country project, but must submit only ONE proposal under this competition.

For more information on this competition see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Because the Department of State limits eligible applicants to only one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to send the following information electronically to the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, April 29, 2010:

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project (include themes and countries chosen)
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's applicant - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is May 28, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Arts Exchanges on International Issues

This grant competition is based on the premise that people-to-people exchanges encourage and strengthen understanding of democratic values and nurture the cultural and social growth of societies. Under this premise, the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs seeks proposals for projects in which U.S. visual artists and arts educators work with their counterparts overseas to create mutually beneficial and self-sustaining partnerships between cultural organizations and/or professional communities. Proposals that show strong prospects for enhancing existing long-term collaborations or establishing new collaborative efforts among participating organizations.

The two project themes for which the Bureau will accept proposals under this competition are:

Mixed Visual Artistic Mediums: Cultural Exchange Between American Indigenous and Minority Artists: and Indigenous and Afro-Latino Artists from Latin and Central America;
Mixed Visual Artistic Mediums: Cultural Exchange Between American Women Artists and Women Artists from Africa and/or the Middle East.

Details and additional information are available in the complete funding announcement: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/E8-7624.htm

Funds are available to support 2-4 awards, with the average award being $450,000. The sponsor encourages applicants to provide maximum levels of cost sharing but does not specify a minimum or maximum percentage required for the competition.

Most recent internal deadline: May 7, 2008.

Most recent external deadline: May 22, 2008.

State, U.S. Department of - Benjamin Franklin Summer Institutes

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for two grants for summer institutes for youth. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3), including accredited, post-secondary U.S. educational institutions, may submit proposals to provide a three- to four week U.S.-based institute for one of the two institute options in the summer of 2010 for up to 45 teenagers ages 16-18:

The Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellows Summer Institute for participants from Europe, the European countries of Eurasia, and the United States.
The Benjamin Franklin Summer Institute with Asia for participants from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and the United States.

U.S. Embassies in all the participating countries will select the foreign participants, and the U.S. grant recipients will select the American participants. Both institutes will focus on leadership development, critical thinking, diplomacy, community activism, and the media as ways that young adults can unite around their common goals. Support for individual or small group follow-on projects in the home communities of the exchange alumni will complete the program.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://exchanges.state.gov/media/pdfs/rfgps/rfgp010610.pdf.

Organizations or institutions may apply for only one of the two institutes. If more than one proposal is received from an applicant, all proposals will be disqualified.

Because the Department of State only allows organizations to submit one proposal for only one institute, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, December 7, 2009:

Name and department of the principal investigator
Identify the Institute being proposed (i.e., Institute for participants from Europe, Eurasia, US or Institute for participants from Central, South Asia and US)
Project description (4 pages maximum) – include program objectives and program activities

The Vice President for Research will appoint a committee to review this material and make a recommendation. All applicants will be notified in time to prepare and submit the full application and supporting material electronically through Grants.gov for the January 6, 2010 deadline.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL): Request for Proposals for Algeria and Israel

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote programs in Algeria and Israel. Program descriptions are given below:

Algeria: Access to Justice, Jobs and Dignity: Trainings for Women in Algeria (approximately $500,000 available). DRL’s objective is to support programs that provide legal services training to marginalized or disadvantaged Algerian women, including widows, to focus on their economic rights as equal citizens.

Israel: Empowering Arab Women and Combating Domestic Violence in Israel (approximately $500,000 available). DRL’s objective is to support programs that work to empower Arab Israeli women, particularly in Bedouin communities, who face a multitude of challenges including lack of education, forced polygamy, and, most egregiously albeit poorly documented, “honor killings.”

The bulk of funding activities should take place during a two to three-year time frame. The award floor is $300,000 and the award ceiling is $500,000 for each initiative. Proposals that request less than the award floor or more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible.

Cost sharing is strongly encouraged and is viewed favorably by DRL reviewers.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=135394

An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals (one proposal per country).

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit two proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, January 5, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Country selected
Project overview (1-2 pages) – brief description of program
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds and suggests faculty effort be proposed as an in-kind match.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is January 25, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Capacity Building Training, Travel, and Support for Law Enforcement and Rule of Law in Central America

The Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) announces an open competition for assistance awards in Central America. Organizations may submit grant proposals for a program to facilitate the implementation of law enforcement and rule of law assistance programs. The activities under this award shall primarily take place within Central America, but may include activities in other areas of the Western Hemisphere.

Country awards as follows: up to $280,000 for Belize, $310,178 for Costa Rica, $200,000 for Guatemala, $750,000 for Honduras, and $720,000 for Panama, but INL reserves the right to combine country awards as appropriate.

Applicants must submit only ONE (1) proposal for each country’s program. Regional proposals are not permitted and will be deemed technically ineligible.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=175553

Internal Notification: Due to the organizational limits for this RFAs, interested applicants must notify the Proposal Development Office (PDO@uky.edu or 257-2861) of intent to apply by Wednesday, June 20, 2012.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is July 5, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of – Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) Programs

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals to support a culture of compliance in Central America and the Dominican Republic. Approximately $900,000 is available.

DRL requests proposals that address the following objective: Strengthening a Culture of Compliance through Promoting Labor Rights for Migrant Workers in Central America and the Dominican Republic. This solicitation seeks proposals to support initiatives that improve the labor rights situation of migrant workers in the CAFTA-DR region. Successful proposals will develop strategies to sustain and improve the application of labor standards for migrant workers, particularly among vulnerable groups, such as women, undocumented and indigenous workers.

Project components may include, but are not limited to:

Developing and implementing strategies for promoting respect for the labor rights of migrant workers and disseminating good practices within the target countries;

Providing technical assistance to worker organizations and NGOs to:

Raise awareness among migrant workers and other vulnerable populations about their labor rights;
Promote the organization of migrant workers in support of their labor rights; and/or
Work with existing legal aid support networks to provide legal assistance to migrant workers;

Conducting outreach and advocacy among employers and other key stakeholders to strengthen respect for labor rights for migrant workers;

Providing training to government officials on mechanisms for improving labor law coverage for migrant workers, including increasing outreach to migrant workers, stronger enforcement, and extending – to the extent possible – social safety net protections.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/125614.htm.

Because the Department of State allows an organization to submit only one application, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in responding to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, July 20, 2009:

Names and departments of the PI and other project personnel
Project overview (3 pages) – briefly describe project objectives, proposed activities, innovative aspects of the proposed program, elements of sustainability that will have a lasting impact and applicant’s related experience.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Community Solutions Program

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs invites proposal submissions for the Community Solutions Program in Africa, East Asia and the Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, South and Central Asia, and the Western Hemisphere. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to conduct this professional fellowship program. The Community Solutions Program serves as a mechanism to support and encourage initiatives organized by young civic and community leaders, ages 25-38, currently working to address the economic, environmental, political, and social challenges confronting their respective local communities. Through four- to six-month professional fellowships with a specific leadership component, Community Solutions will provide opportunities for eligible individuals to more effectively address issues of concern in their own towns, cities and regions.

The specific themes for the professional fellowships for this program are:

1. Environmental Issues: Fellowships for the ``Environmental Issues'' theme should focus on issues related to water and resource management, food security, supporting the food supply (at local, regional or national levels), social entrepreneurship (to leverage science and technology to address ecological and environmental issues), low-carbon technologies, and the use of natural resources, pollution, sustainable energy, and climate change.

Geographic Regions and Eligible Countries:
Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda East Asia and the Pacific: Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam Near East & North Africa: Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and West Bank/Gaza South and Central Asia: Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan Western Hemisphere: Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Paraguay, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago

2. Tolerance/Conflict Resolution: Fellowships should expose participants to issues and strategies that address tolerance, multi-culturalism, discrimination, and conflict resolution. Negotiation skills, the art of compromise, fair treatment of minority populations, and civil rights and responsibilities can also be addressed. Based on participants' specific interests, fellowships may need to be identified that deal with conflict resolution and crisis response tools for use in failing, failed, and post-conflict states and complex emergencies/disasters.

Geographic Regions and Eligible Countries:
Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda Near East & North Africa: Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and West Bank/Gaza South and Central Asia: Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka Western Hemisphere: Bolivia, Columbia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Paraguay, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago

3. Transparency and Accountability: Fellowships should provide exposure to institutions and concepts related to civil society, grass-roots democracy, good governance, anti-corruption, transparency, accountability, and/or free and fair elections. The important role of volunteerism and the culture of volunteerism can also be addressed, when appropriate.

Geographic Regions and Eligible Countries:
Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda East Asia and the Pacific: Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam Europe: Albania, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Macedonia, Romania, and Slovakia South and Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan

4. Women's Issues: Fellowships for the ``Women's Issues'' theme should focus on issues related to women's empowerment, women's education, women's health, women entrepreneurs, gender equality, and the prevention of all forms of exploitation, including domestic violence. Special emphasis should be placed on identifying Fellowships that will provide exposure to best practices for grassroots organizations working to advance the political, economic, and social empowerment of women.

Geographic Regions and Eligible Countries:
Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda Near East & North Africa: Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and West Bank/Gaza South and Central Asia: Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan Western Hemisphere: Brazil, Dominican Republic, and Haiti

Further information can be found at: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-04-21/html/2011-9731.htm

An organization may submit no more than one proposal in this competition. If more than one proposal is received from the same applicant, all submissions will be declared technically ineligible and will receive no further consideration in the review process.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Country(ies) and theme selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is June 2, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Congressionally Mandated – One-time Grants Program

The Department of State has allocated a total of $6 million for two Congressionally-mandated competitions: A) One-time Grants Program for Academic Programs and B) Professional, Cultural, and Youth One-time Grants Program. Each of these two competitions has multiple programs, each with specific guidelines and funding levels.

A. Academic Programs:

1. Undergraduate Intensive English Language Program
2. Capacity Building for Undergraduate or Graduate Study Abroad
3. Study of the United States Institutes for Foreign Undergraduate Students

For more information on Competition A see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

B. Professional, Cultural, and Youth One-time Grants Program

1. Emerging Youth Leaders: for high school students (ages 15-17) and educators

- Democracy and Governance in Civil Society
- Science and Environmental issues

2. Emerging Young Professionals: for young adults (ages 22-35)

- Environmental issues
- Entrepreneurial and business management skills
- Post-conflict governing
- Development of Grassroots Organizations for Women

3. Emerging Cultural Leaders

- "Rooted in the Arts" program for U.S. performing artists (ages 25-35) and teachers

For more information on Competition B see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Most recent internal deadline: May 8, 2009.

Most recent external deadline: May 14, 2009.

State, U.S. Department of – Creative Arts Exchange

The Cultural Programs Division within the Office of Citizen Exchanges, in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for four projects under the FY13 Creative Arts Exchange (CAE). CAE initiatives are arts-based international people-to-people exchanges that support and further U.S. Department of State foreign policy objectives.

Under the FY2013 CAE Open Competition, ECA will accept project proposals under the following themes:

Economic Statecraft and the Arts,
Arts in Collaboration,
Community Engagement through the Arts,
Professional Development in the Arts.

The goals of the Creative Arts Exchange are to:

Promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries;
Provide unique opportunities for artistic collaboration, engagement and/or performance between American artists and international participants;
Convey the diversity and high artistic merit of the arts in America as well as increasing awareness and understanding of American art, culture, values and society for international participants and audiences;
Foster opportunities for educational outreach and community engagement with diverse and underserved communities, especially youth, women, and persons with disabilities;
Engage participants in instructive and informative experiences in their art form; and
Create opportunities for sustaining relationships and collaboration between U.S. and international artists and institutions that endure beyond program duration.

Cost Sharing: There is no minimum or maximum percentage required for this competition. However, the Bureau encourages applicants to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding in support of its programs.

Limited Submission: Applicants may not submit more than one (1) proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://eca.state.gov/files/bureau/creative_arts_exchange_open_comp_rfgp.pdf

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is May 6, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Criminal Trial Observation Program for Afghanistan

The Department of State’s Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs seeks unique, sustainable, technically sound approaches to observe criminal trials and obtain reliable information on criminal justice practices in Afghanistan that will ultimately inform and encourage ongoing efforts to improve fair-trial standards and support reform of the justice system. The applicant should be able to demonstrate a firm understanding of Afghan law (current and pending) as well as the obstacles impeding the efficient and fair functioning of Afghanistan’s criminal justice system and the administration of justice in Afghanistan generally.

Between $400,000 and $1.7 million will be available for this award for a period of up to two years.

Limited Submission: Each applicant organization may submit only one proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=191954

Internal Notification: Due to the organizational limits for this RFP, interested individuals must notify the Proposal Development Office (PDO@uky.edu or 257-2861) of intent to apply by Thursday, August 23, 2012.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is September 12, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of – Cuba Programs

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that respond to the needs and interests of Cubans on the island and empower citizens to engage more robustly in civic activities and decisions that improve their lives.

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining innovative implementation concepts (including but not limited to distribution of small cash grants to enable Cubans on the island to carry out activities that they design, and use of new technologies that facilitate networking, such as SMS text messaging) and capacity to manage projects, targeting one of the following issues.

Proposals that combine topics may be deemed technically ineligible.

Strengthen the inclusion of people with disabilities (subject to the availability of funding, approximately $200,000):

DRL seeks proposals to strengthen and complement Cuban-led initiatives to create the conditions that allow meaningful civic participation by persons with disabilities. DRL seeks to support initiatives that enable Cuban civil society to encourage and support Cubans to respect, protect and fulfill the rights set out in within Cuban law and international conventions to which Cuba is a party, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Envisioned projects should be designed with the end goal of enabling independent Cuban civil society groups to promote changes in attitudes and behaviors that stigmatize and marginalize persons with disabilities.

Strengthen the inclusion of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community (subject to the availability of funding, approximately $300,000):

DRL seeks proposals to strengthen grassroots organizations to create the conditions that allow meaningful and unhindered participation by members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community in all aspects of Cuban society. Envisioned projects should have the ultimate goal of promoting change in attitudes and behaviors that stigmatize and marginalize LGBT persons.

Freedom of Expression

Professional support to journalists (subject to the availability of funding, approximately $600,000):

DRL seeks to expand its professional support to journalists by enabling the creation of better networked and more professional journalists that can carry out citizen-led initiatives to advance freedom of expression on the island. The end goal is to involve independent journalists’ in the media development process.

Greater freedom of expression on the island (subject to the availability of funding, approximately $600,000): DRL seeks proposals to support greater freedom of expression on the island, especially among performing artists, visual artists, musicians, poets, bloggers, and writers. Objectives are to increase opportunities for expressing opinions openly and sharing ideas, generate increased demand not only for information, per se, but to advocate for artistic freedom and for general freedom of expression.

Social Inclusion in Cuba (subject to the availability of funding, approximately $1,000,000): DRL seeks proposals to support effective approaches that empower Cuban citizens to advocate for public policy alternatives that improve standards of living to enable them to demand rights, including access to housing, food, education, and health care. In some instances, these rights may be contained within, but not implemented by the Cuban Constitution, existing Cuban legislation, and/or international conventions signed and/or ratified by Cuba. Local actors increasingly seek means of demanding governmental accountability for systemic rights violations, and have demonstrated a widespread interest in enhancing governmental accountability and transparency within Cuba. Successful applicants will employ mechanisms to promote home-grown solutions to achieving greater respect for rights. Mechanisms should be aimed at empowering Cuban citizens by providing the appropriate resources and tools to allow them to identify rights that they consider important, and by enabling them to design peaceful, nonviolent strategies or more effectively promote existing strategies.

Promoting the peaceful resolution of conflict (subject to the availability of funding, approximately $300,000): DRL seeks proposals that promote conflict resolution techniques and foster collaboration among Cuban civil society actors. The end goal is to use conflict resolution as a tool to improve respect for human rights by helping people work together to manage their differences and promoting a consultative process to prevent conflict. Envisioned projects should include activities that promote techniques (i.e., cooperative approaches, negotiation techniques, principle of impartiality, interest-based cooperative strategies, dialogue, and role-play/scenario exercises) for resolving a wide range of conflict situations, including seeking remedies and redress for abuses and arbitrary enforcement of the law, community disputes, workplace grievances, and vulnerable populations’ participation in society.

Strengthening Cuban independent legal associations (subject to the availability of funding, approximately $700,000):

DRL seeks proposals that strengthen independent lawyers and legal associations by providing resources, training, information dissemination, and capacity building, among other measures. The end goal will be to further empower independent Cuban lawyers to assist citizens in explaining and defending their rights and freedoms. In addition, given the recent economic reforms in Cuba, the envisioned program will also help independent Cuban lawyers to play a critical role on economic issues related to markets.

Human Rights Documentation (subject to the availability of funding approximately $427,024):

This project will provide professional support to human rights monitors and investigators throughout Cuba. Currently, most human rights monitors and investigators lack training in basic skills such as data collection, information security, reporting for appropriate audiences, and effective collaboration.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=99933
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

Because the Department of State only allows an applicant to submit two proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Wednesday, July 6, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel,
Topic selected,
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is July 18, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - DanceMotion USA

The Cultural Programs Division, within the Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, announces an open competition for a cooperative agreement to administer the 2010-2012 cycle of the DanceMotion USA Program. The program’s goal is to showcase the best of American dance and provide an opportunity to directly engage priority audiences in foreign countries. The program will consist of approximately four to six tours by approximately the same number of U.S. dance companies, whose repertoires are representative of American culture (e.g. contemporary, jazz, hip hop, tap.) In addition to public performances, overseas tours will include public workshops, master classes, lecture-demonstrations, outreach activities and interaction with local youth in a wide variety of venues and settings. Priority audiences are those who do not have regular access to American culture, including underserved and younger populations.

For more information on this competition see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Specify program - US Dept. of State - DanceMotion USA

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Describe experience in administering tours to other countries and provide a justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's applicant - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s applicant. The Department of State deadline is May 27, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Democracy, Human Rights, and Access to Justice in the Western Hemisphere

The Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor (DRL) seeks proposals for projects that will address ongoing lack of justice and impunity in Latin American countries with a legacy of gross human rights violations. Successful proposals will provide an analysis of the root causes of these systemic issues, explain how the proposed programming approach addresses these root causes, as well as take a holistic view of justice and impunity, articulating how the approach will ultimately serve to restore the relationship between citizens and the state in countries where this legacy impacts individual and community participation in democratic processes. DRL encourages applicants to focus on up to 3 of the following countries: Argentina, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, and Peru.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=229693

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is April 26, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Democracy, Human Rights, and Citizen Engagement in Ukraine

DRL’s objective is to support the role of civil society in policy formation and enhancing accountability and responsiveness of government officials in Ukraine. The program will support civil society to foster an inclusive and participatory democratic system of government and hold politicians and public officials more accountable to constituents. In order to foster more unity among civil society efforts, the program should support post-election advocacy on areas of policy formation and implementation such as ongoing efforts related to elections and election law reform; freedom of assembly legislation; and/or reversing legislation restricting the rights of vulnerable or marginalized populations. The program should also examine how well existing laws are implemented and help civil society ensure that citizens can use official institutions and mechanisms to exercise their rights.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: https://www.grantsolutions.gov/gs/preaward/previewPublicAnnouncement.do?id=17550

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is April 19, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Democracy, Human Rights, and Rule of Law in Africa and the Near East Region

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues:

A Rights-Based Approach to Disability Inclusion in Africa
Empowerment and Protection of Persons with Disabilities in the Near East

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit no more than two proposals under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=210933

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is January 4, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Democracy, Human Rights in the East Asia and Pacific Region

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the issues outlined below; all requests are subject to the availability of funding.

Regional:
Community Participation to Improve Government Implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) (approximately $300,000 available).

Vietnam:
Improving Civil Society Influence at the National Assembly (approximately $400,000 available).
Supporting Implementation of Convention Against Torture (CAT) (approximately $250,000 available).

Cambodia:
Supporting Civil Society in Cambodia (approximately $350,000 available).

Indonesia:
Strengthening civil society’s role in security service reform (approximately $500,000 available).

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=126133

An organization may submit no more than five (5) proposals (one proposal per theme).

Because the Department of State only allows an applicant to submit five proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, November 21, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Theme selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is December 13, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights, and Rule of Law in Europe and Eurasia

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights, and rule of law in Europe and Eurasia, specifically Belarus and Roma Regional projects targeting the following issues:

Empowerment of Roma in Civil Society: DRL’s objective is to combat violence and fight discrimination against Roma in Europe. This regional program will train Roma civic leaders and NGOs to effectively engage in local, national, and regional advocacy.
Increasing Community Participation in Belarus: DRL’s objective is to broaden the knowledge and understanding of Belarusians outside of urban centers on community advocacy and activism.

The Bureau intends to award two awards in the range of $300,000 to $700,000.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than two proposals.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=204733

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is December 1, 2012.

State, U. S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights and Rule of Law for Kenya, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues:

Kenya (approximately $400,000): DRL seeks proposals that promote the rights and participation of women and the disabled in the new constitutional reform agenda. Program activities should strengthen and build networks and coalitions to increase the advocacy and voice of women and, especially, the disabled. Targets of opportunity might include unions that focus on working conditions or organizations that work towards eliminating discrimination and promoting policy change.

Sudan (approximately $1,600,000): Civil society activists in the North continue to be subject to abuses such as arbitrary arrest, disappearance and incommunicado detention, torture, physical abuse, unfair trial, and gender-based violence. DRL seeks proposals to build the capacity of local organizations to provide timely and secure services to victims of politically-motivated human rights abuses in Northern Sudan. Assistance should focus on providing services to civil society members including political activists, journalists, NGOs members, and labor advocates. It may also provide services to victims of restrictions on freedom of religion. Proposals must include a significant sub-grant component to local organizations. They must also demonstrate knowledge of and linkages to ongoing programming to monitor human rights abuses in the North, as well as the current means through which victims receive assistance. Applicants must have a demonstrated ability to work with Northern Sudanese local organizations and other relevant organizations in the region. Applicants must provide a description of mechanisms that will be employed to provide for the safety of local organizations and victims, including methods to protect the identity of victims. Program activities may include, but are not limited to:

· Identification: Strengthen mechanisms for identifying victims in need of assistance, including in areas of the North outside of Khartoum. This includes building secure and safe linkages with local and international human rights monitors and activists, as well as civil society organizations. It also includes efforts to determine the whereabouts of persons who have disappeared.

· Assessments: Strengthen and build processes to assess the security, medical, legal, and other assistance needs that victims and their families have as a result of the abuse. Such assessments must take into consideration the needs of female civil society members. Assessments should provide the basis for subsequent service provision.

Coordination and Referral: Implement and expand coordination efforts between local NGOs, physical and mental health providers, legal advocacy providers, and other service providers to ensure comprehensive assistance to victims and their families.
Service Provision: Provide training and funding to improve the capacity of local entities to offer direct services such as legal, medical, counseling, emergency shelter, and other forms of assistance to victims.

Democratic Republic of the Congo (approximately $1,250,000): DRL seeks proposals that strengthen protection of human rights defenders, in part by enhancing their capacity to fight impunity for attacks on defenders and other civilians. The program should address the concerning trend whereby defenders have become increasingly vulnerable to harassment, intimidation, attacks, and arbitrary arrest, and whereby the killing of defenders have often been followed by investigations lacking in impartiality and marred by irregularities. The Floribert Chebeya Bahizire Human Rights Defenders Program, named in memory of an NGO activist who was killed in June 2010, should take robust actions designed to establish or strengthen, in partnership with defenders and government, all of the following:

a legal framework and a national action plan for the protection of defenders;
a rapid-reaction mechanism to protect journalists and NGO activists who go missing or are under siege;
cooperative relationships with both executive branch officials and parliamentarians to legitimize defenders' work, including that of women defenders, and end the stigmatization of defenders as "enemies" of the government;
and a mechanism to disseminate self-protection strategies for defenders who focus on particularly sensitive topics, such as conflict minerals and corruption, that increase their vulnerability to harassment or violence.

Further information can be found at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/157486.htm

An organization may submit no more than two proposals.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit two proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, May 23, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Country(ies) selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is June 3, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights and Rule of Law for Kyrgyzstan

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues:

Voter Education and Enhanced Electoral Participation (approximately $275,000): DRL seeks proposals to support activities related to the upcoming presidential elections in Kyrgyzstan. Activities should include the development of media tools in Kyrgyz, Russian and Uzbek, including public service announcements, to inform voters of the election process, voting procedures, and how voters can use the election to advance interethnic reconciliation and create a government that addresses the needs of a multi-ethnic society. Activities should also focus on the implementation of roundtables / open forums at the regional and local levels to help voters understand candidates’ platforms as they relate to the elections. Proposed projects should focus on both the North and the South and should include all elements of civil society, particularly marginalized groups. Grantees must be willing to coordinate their programming efforts with other domestic and international organizations to eliminate duplication of work and ensure maximum coverage.

Inter-Ethnic Reconciliation (approximately $500,000): DRL seeks proposals that work with entities in urban and rural areas of southern Kyrgyzstan that can facilitate reconciliation, such as religious leaders or women’s groups, to enhance the civic engagement capacity of women and youth from diverse communities on issues pertaining to inter-ethnic dialogue and integration. Creative projects that enhance awareness of cultural, language and historical traditions are encouraged.

Media (approximately $600,000): DRL seeks proposals that develop local television, radio, and print news sources that allow communities to receive news in their local languages.

Women’s Empowerment (approximately $600,000): DRL seeks proposals that actively promote women’s rights, especially targeted toward combating gender-based violence, including domestic violence, and increasing gender sensitivity among institutions such as law enforcement, local and municipal government, schools, religious and medical institutions.

Further information can be found at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/c12302.htm

An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations. The Dept. of State deadline is July 6, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights, and Rule of Law in the Near East Region

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) seeks proposals for one Middle East/North Africa regional program in two to three countries focused on elections, targeting disabled persons’ organizations (DPOs) in order to better include them in the political and legislative processes.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than 1 (one) proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=217333

State, U.S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights and Rule of Law for countries in South Asia

REQUESTED PROPOSAL PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues:

Afghanistan

Supporting Human Rights Institutions (approximately $1,000,000): DRL seeks proposals that bolster the ability of human rights institutions and organizations in Afghanistan, either within the government or civil society, to monitor human rights abuses, particularly outside of Kabul. Proposals that focus on women's issues or transitional justice will be given highest priority.

Pakistan

Championing Women Parliamentarians (approximately $900,000): DRL seeks proposals that increase the capacity of elected women parliamentarians at the provincial and local levels, including programming that supports women’s political advocacy skills, and coalition and consensus building with women’s caucuses.

NGO Monitoring of Extra-Judicial Killings and Detention (approximately $750,000): DRL seeks proposals that seek to establish a formal mechanism to monitor reports of human rights abuses by security forces, to include abuses related to extra-judicial killings and detention. Organizations will be required to partner with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan.

Legal Advocacy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) (approximately $750,000): DRL seeks proposals that support the Peshawar Bar Association and the FATA Lawyers Forum as a vehicle for outreach on military excesses in the FATA, fostering mechanisms of accountability through constitutional and legal reforms, and/or FATA’s incorporation into the normal provincial structure.

Promoting Media Transparency on National Security Issues (approximately $750,000): DRL seeks proposals that create programming and/or implement training for print, radio and TV reporting in English and local language press on national security issues, with a focus on developing strategies to effectively report in the context of extremism and conflict.

Further information can be found at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/143474.htm. An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 9, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights, and Rule of Law in Vietnam

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) invites organizations to submit statements of interest outlining program concepts and organizational capacity to manage projects in Vietnam. DRL objectives in Vietnam are to: increase Vietnamese citizens’ access to alternative, credible information; promote the growth of civil society; and support individuals who use existing institutional platforms to press for increased freedoms and rights in Vietnam. Universities are eligible to participate but proposed activities cannot be of a research or academic nature. Funding ranges from $250,000 to $425,000 for projects related to religious freedom; freedom of information; and the rights of the disabled.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than three [3] Statements of Interest.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=218535

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 1, 2013.

State, U. S. Department of - Democracy and Human Rights Programs in Sub-Saharan Africa

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following themes:

Equatorial Guinea - Building the Capacity of Civil Society Organizations in Equatorial Guinea (approximately $500,000 available).

Guinea - Improving Prison Conditions in Guinea (approximately $500,000 available).

Nigeria/Ghana - Implementing the Voluntary Principles (VPs) in Ghana and Nigeria (approximately $400,000 available).

Zambia - Building the Capacity of Zambia’s Judiciary (approximately $500,000 available).

Cote d’Ivoire - Reconciliation, Human Rights, and Transitional Justice (approximately $800,000 available).

Proposals that combine target countries and/or themes may be deemed technically ineligible. Proposals that request less than the award floor ($400,000) or more than the award ceiling ($800,000) will be deemed technically ineligible. Cost sharing is strongly encouraged and is viewed favorably by DRL reviewers.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=134253

An organization may submit no more than five (5) proposals (one proposal per theme).

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit five proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Wednesday, January 4, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Theme selected
Project overview (1-2 pages) – brief description of activities
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with the proposed cost share and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is January 20, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights, Rule of Law, and Freedom of Expression/Press for the Europe/Eurasia Region

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues:

Russia:
Building the Capacity of Media to Increase Transparency and Counter Corruption (approximately $770,000 available): DRL’s objective is to strengthen the capacity of civil society and media to advocate against corruption in the context of the Russian government’s anti-corruption and transparency initiatives. DRL seeks proposals that build bridges between the worlds of journalism and anti-corruption advocacy in Russia. Proposals should expand the capacity of journalists, bloggers, and/or civil society to uncover and effectively publicize reports of corruption on the local, regional, or national levels using new and traditional media. Proposals may focus on countering specific types of corruption or corruption in particular social spheres, such as politics, religion, education, health care, and law enforcement. Proposals should include a component focusing on upcoming elections in March 2012 and building upon lessons learned during the December 2011 elections. In addition, proposals should include a financial sustainability component to assist participating media outlets, bloggers, etc., to improve their long-term viability.

Improving Access to Justice in the North Caucasus (approximately $550,000 available): DRL’s objective is to impede the cycle of human rights abuses, violent extremism, and authoritarian responses in the North Caucasus through support of access to justice. Proposals should be mindful of how the cycle of repression and violence in the North Caucausus impacts the rights of vulnerable or marginalized groups, especially women, but also journalists, independent activists, ethnic and religious minorities, LGBT individuals, and those with disabilities. Proposals should address one or more of the following themes:

- Expanding civil society's capacity to facilitate access to justice for citizens;

- Raising citizens' ability to access legal services;

- Increasing citizens' knowledge of protections provided by Russian and international law in regards to human rights;

- Developing citizens' understanding of the role of universal human rights in an Islamic context.

Balkans:
Balkans Regional (approximately $500,000 available): DRL’s objective is to decrease intolerance/discrimination based on identity (e.g. ethnicity, language, religion, disabilities) among young people in the Balkans, and to promote cross-border, interethnic understanding and dialogue among youth in the region and within national boundaries. DRL seeks proposals that enhance reconciliation and inclusion efforts among various majority and minority communities affected by recent conflict; and impart the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for effective and responsible participation in democratic societies. Activities should promote constructive and inclusive relations among members of ethnic, religious, linguistic and other marginalized groups. Proposals must include participants from three or more Balkan countries (specifically including Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo) and include youths from a range of ethnic, religious, cultural or other marginalized communities.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=126133
An organization may submit no more than three (3) proposals (one proposal per theme).

Because the Department of State only allows an applicant to submit three proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, October 17, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Theme selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is October 31, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Democracy, Human Rights, Rule of Law, and Freedom of Expression/Press for countries in the Western Hemisphere

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights, rule of law, and freedom of expression/press in the following regions and countries: Western Hemisphere (Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Ecuador, and Argentina)

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=89514
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Country(ies) selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 23, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Elections, Political Participation, and Consensus Building in Selected Countries

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) solicits proposals for projects that support elections and promote political participation and consensus building for countries in Africa (Cote d’Ivoire, Central African Republic, Togo, and Uganda), the Near East (Lebanon and Tunisia), and South Asia (Afghanistan) targeting the following issues:

Africa:

Central African Republic (approximately $750,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to develop and build the capacity of human rights NGOs and to use radio as a tool to build civil society capacity. Radio should be used to increase sustainable links between citizens, civil society, and elected representatives in an informative and interactive dialogue on issues regarding human rights—including impunity and endemic corruption—as well as democracy and civic participation, including in the presidential and legislative elections scheduled for 2010. This dialogue, the reach of which should extend beyond the capital to other urban centers and rural areas throughout the country, should directly involve and help build the capacity of local human rights NGOs focusing on issues such as impunity, arbitrary arrest and detention, corruption, torture, judicial independence, women’s and children’s rights, press freedom, and electoral integrity. The dialogue should aim to increase citizens’ understanding of human rights and their engagement in the political process, and it should incorporate the participation of elected representatives and other government officials.

Cote d’Ivoire (approximately $750,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to monitor the elections preparations process and the conduct of elections in Cote d'Ivoire, including the training of local election observers.

Togo (approximately $800,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to build the capacity of civil society organizations to participate in the 2010 presidential election process through collaboration with the Electoral Commission on one or more of the following election-related activities: voter registration, election observation, and/or adjudication of post-election disputes. Activities that specifically include a youth component are encouraged. Applicants interested in applying for a grant in Togo must currently be operating in the region and have the ability to immediately initiate program activities upon receipt of funding.

Uganda (approximately $550,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that provide voter civic education in the lead up to and during the 2011 elections.

Near East:

Lebanon (approximately $700,000 available): DRL seeks to fund programs that provide support for media organizations to develop mediacoverage and monitoringof the 2010 municipal elections and electoral process;public awareness campaigns on citizen rights and responsibilities during the elections;and initiatives that empower youthparticipationin the elections.DRL welcomes proposals that focus on organizations outside the capital, on youth media groups, and that include training and/or small grants components.

Tunisia (approximately $400,000 available): DRL seeks to fund programs that promote the participation of women in political processes and promote the empowerment of women to become a part of political dialogue by educating them on innovative methods of engagement and participation.

South Asia:

Afghanistan (approximately $600,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that support civic education by local civil society groups in preparation for the 2010 parliamentary and district elections. Applicants are encouraged to work with organizations such as Afghan Women’s Network and Afghan Civil Society Forum.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/127829.htm.

Because the Department of State will accept no more than three proposals from an organization, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, August 31, 2009:

Names and departments of PI and key personnel
Target country(ies)
Project narrative (maximum 4 pages) including a statement of work or synopsis of the program and its expected results, the project’s objectives and activities, the total amount of funding requested and program length, and a brief statement on how the project is innovative, sustainable, and will have a demonstrated impact.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas Projects in Select Countries

The Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs (WHA) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals to support the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas (ECPA). Up to $5.5 million in FY 2010 Economic Support Funds is available for approximately five awards.

WHA invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to advance the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas (ECPA), which promotes cooperation on renewable energy, energy efficiency, cleaner fossil fuels, infrastructure, energy poverty, sustainable land use and forests, and adaptation issues in Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean. At the 2009 Fifth Summit of the Americas in Trinidad and Tobago, President Obama invited all Western Hemisphere governments, private sector stakeholders, civil society, and international organizations to join ECPA to deepen collaboration in the Americas on energy security and climate change. For more information, please visit www.ecpamericas.org.

The Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs’ objectives in supporting these efforts are to strengthen policy and regulatory frameworks in support of clean energy; accelerate the uptake and deployment of renewable and energy efficient technologies; promote regional cooperation and integration; fight energy poverty by increasing access to modern energy services; advance countries’ abilities to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation; and promote resilience to the impacts of climate change on vulnerable countries. Selected applicants will be required to provide summaries of their activities and updates to the ECPA website at www.ecpaamericas.org, a clearinghouse managed by the Organization of American States in order to disseminate information about ECPA activities.

WHA invites organizations to submit proposals that will address one of the following three topics. Each applicant organization may submit no more than three [3] proposals total for this solicitation, and proposals may not combine topics.

Topics:

Advance Power Sector Integration and Cross-Border Trade in Electricity: To promote power sector integration and cross-border trade in clean electricity, WHA seeks to support two sub-regional and ongoing efforts to promote cross-border trade in electricity and power sector integration. They are: 1) the Central American Electrical Interconnection System (SIEPAC) and 2) Colombian-led efforts, with Inter-American Development Bank support, to promote long distance transmission and electrical interconnection with Andean countries, Chile, and Panama. Proposals may address either or both of these efforts. For this topic, each organization may submit no more than one proposal, and proposals must request a minimum of $500,000 in WHA funds. Up to $1,000,000 is available. WHA anticipates granting one award.

Increasing Access to Modern and Clean Energy: Proposals should help Latin American and Caribbean countries advance low emissions development by increasing usage of renewable and energy efficient technologies. Proposed activities should outline clean energy projects, advance policy and regulatory frameworks in support of clean energy in the power and transport sectors, and/or increase access to modern, clean energy services and technologies in urban and rural areas where citizens have limited or no access to affordable energy. Proposals must demonstrate an understanding of ongoing ECPA efforts, which are summarized on http://www.ecpamericas.org, in order to suggest activities that are consistent with existing programs and/or propose new areas of collaboration within ECPA’s seven pillars. Up to $3,500,000 is available. WHA anticipates granting up to three awards. To encourage regional collaboration on ECPA activities, applications must offer support for multi-country, regional initiatives and activities involving at least three of the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to include letters of support and endorsement (particularly from national and sub-national government officials (energy and/or foreign ministry officials), private sector companies, civil society organizations, or academic institutions) and memorandums of understanding/agreement. For applicants with a large number of letters/MOUs, it may be useful to provide a list of the organizations/government agencies that support the program rather than the actual documentation. Each applicant organization may submit a maximum of three proposals for this topic, and proposals must request a minimum of $500,000 in WHA funds.

3) Regional Andean Glacier and Water Resources Initiative:

Downstream communities from Andean glaciers depend on glaciers for potable water, agriculture, hydropower, and other productive sector needs. Large uncertainties still exist at the sub-regional, country, and municipal level about the effects of the present rapid rate of climate change. Governments, local scientific communities, water resources managers, and agricultural experts in Andean countries need more capacity to assess the impact of glacial retreat and changing hydrological patterns as a result of climate change and to develop strategies for adaptation at the policy level based on scientific data they can generate. WHA seeks to further a regional resource network for monitoring, modeling, and information sharing of South American glacier and paramos (neotropical ecosystems) resources. WHA seeks proposals from organizations that can strengthen local research institutions in each target country and foster information sharing and influencing of regional adaptation policy decisions related to glaciers and the surrounding paramos to promote sustainability beyond WHA funding. Applicants should propose activities that build capacity for glacier monitoring; water resources management for long-range planning; improve climate change resilience; provide information and tools for policy decisions; and facilitate cooperation in the region on this cross-cutting issue. Proposals should clearly describe how planned activities will build 1) local scientific capacity and 2) local capacity to communicate scientific results to inform policy decisions. Applicants are encouraged to engage hydrologists and glaciologists as subject matter experts for the duration of the award. Proposals must include activities in and for all of the following countries: Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, and Peru. Upon selection, the successful grantee will be expected, to work with Centro de Estudios Científicos (CECS) in Valdivia, Chile, to coordinate all regional activities to help build the network of glaciologists and glacier research institutions. CECS is world-renowned for its climate change and glaciology research and has strong ties to academic institutions both in the U.S. and throughout South America. In addition, applications demonstrating a knowledge of existing glacier monitoring and research efforts, including efforts by UNESCO, the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the U.S. Agency for International Development, will be deemed highly competitive. For this topic, each organization may submit no more than one proposal, and proposal budgets must total $1,000,000. WHA anticipates granting one award.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=97744
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

Because the Department of State only allows an applicant to submit three proposals total (with differing restrictions for each topic), the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Friday, June 17, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Specific Topic (1, 2 or 3) and the country(ies) or region selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations. The Dept. of State deadline is July 1, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - English Access Microscholarship Program

The Office of English Language Programs announces an open competition for the administration of the English Access Microscholarship Program (Access), which provides a foundation of English language skills to bright 13- to 20-year olds from disadvantaged sectors overseas through in-country after school classes and intensive sessions. The scholarships fund in-country study for English classes close to the students' homes. The Cooperative Agreement recipient’s role is to disburse funds to in-country educational service providers selected by U.S. Embassies. In addition, the recipient will provide at least two U.S. workshops, one for selected Access directors and teachers and the other for selected Access students. The student workshop will focus on increasing English language proficiency through project-based learning. The Access directors’ and teachers’ workshop will focus on providing linguistic enhancement through immersion studies with firsthand exposure to the U.S. and the ability to share these experiences with Access students through their English language lessons and enhancement activities.

One cooperative agreement of up to $28,000,000 will be awarded for this program. The anticipated award date for this project is August 1, 2012, and the anticipated project completion date is December 31, 2015.

Applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding.

Further information can be found at:
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=Jb80PFGWnJxT8MQHXr3JbH3Jp2vtyccG1pJwPz11cvblpZSjzyfq!1471941753?oppId=156873&mode=VIEW

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal to this competition.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one application, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, April 26, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
A short description (1-2 pages) of how the project will be administered and the kinds of workshops that will be given
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 14, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Enhancing Citizens’ Engagement in the Criminal Justice System Program in Montenegro

The Department of State’s Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office for Europe and Asia, (INL/EA) plans to award a cooperative agreement to an applicant that will focus its efforts on developing and implementing a broad based grants program that builds upon the overall goal of strengthening civil society’s efforts to engage in the criminal justice sector and advance pragmatic solutions for sustainable rule of law reform.

INL anticipates making one award of $600,000 for an 18 month performance period.

The Department of State will only accept one (1) proposal per organization under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=187753

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is August 24, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Establishing Student Councils – Phase III

The Office of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), located in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, announces an open competition for applications to partner with an existing grantee to complete Phase III of a national project, Establishing Student Councils, in Yemen. This final phase of the project involves full adoption of the student councils model by Yemeni education officials at both the local and national levels and the establishment of new councils in the remaining governorates.

This project reinforces civic education by giving students practical experience with the principles of transparency, democracy, civic responsibility, and political participation. The project, Establishing Student Councils, exposes students to democratic approaches and principles of participation, respect for diversity, tolerance, and political processes.

The successful applicant must show capacity to replicate an existing model for high school-based student councils currently underway in Yemen. Given the important role parent councils play in school administration, the selected applicant will also support the creation of parent councils in schools without them and strengthen existing parent councils. The selected applicant must work side-by-side in a non-financial partnership with the existing grantee, the Academy for Educational Development (AED), for implementation of a national expansion of the project, Establishing Student Councils, which has been under implementation since 2007. The selected applicant will expand the project to a critical mass of schools in each of the following governorates: Sayoun, Hadhramout, Al-Mahrah, Al-Baidha, Abyan, Lahj, Aden, Al-Dhaleh, Dhamar, Rayma, Al-Mahwit, Hajjah. As phase III implementation has begun, AED is currently establishing student and parent councils in ten schools within one district of the governorate of Aden. The selected applicant will target additional districts in the governorate of Aden. At this time security concerns have prevented the projects expansion to Sa’adah, and Al-Jawf. Special consideration will be given to applicants who demonstrate the ability to expand the project to these governorates.

Further information can be found at: http://mepi.state.gov/mepi/english-mepi/funding-opportunities/apply-for-a-grant/open-funding-opportunities.html

Applicants may submit one application to this announcement.

Because the Department of State only allows applicants to submit one application, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, March 3, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is March 11, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Expanding Citizen-Government Dialogue

The U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) requests applications that support civil society and private sector reform initiatives. Projects may propose activities in one or more of the following countries: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and/or Yemen. MEPI requests applications to create or expand sustainable mechanisms for civil society and the private sector to effectively engage with governments on political, economic, or social reform in one or more of the following areas: Economic Governance and Entrepreneurship, Women’s Empowerment, and Freedom of Expression and Association. Projects should focus on creating and expanding mechanisms for civil society and the private sector to cooperate and engage productively with their country’s government on these issues. To ensure maximum impact and sustainability, MEPI envisions organizations working in partnership with each other to fulfill these goals.

Cost Sharing: Applicants are encouraged to provide cost-sharing (or matching) from additional sources in support of their proposed project.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit only one (1) application in response to this announcement.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=222140

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 22, 2013.

State, U. S. Department of - Expanding Civic Participation and Defending Human Rights in Cuba

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals to expand Cuban civic participation and strengthen independent civil society groups with a view to supporting the ability of Cuban citizens to freely determine their own future. DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following topics:

Human Rights Documentation
Social Media Advocacy for Human Rights and Accountability
Youth and Technology
Building Civil Society’s Ability to Advocate for Free Market Principles
Freedom of Expression

An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposal per project listed in this announcement.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=176253

Internal Notification: Due to the organizational limits for this program, interested applicants must notify the Proposal Development Office (PDO@uky.edu or 257-2861) of intent to apply by Monday, June 25, 2012.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is July 13, 2012.

State, U. S. Department of - Evaluation of Rule of Law Programs in Columbia

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is seeking applications from qualified organizations to conduct an evaluation of rule of law programs in Colombia for the performance period of 2008 – 2011. Applicants are expected to propose their own approach/methodology for conducting the evaluation. The final report must assess where INL-funded interventions impacted the listed program goal areas for the years 2008-2011. In accordance with the Department of State’s Program Evaluation Policy, the evaluation must have methodological rigor and also have independence and integrity.

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=175535

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is July 9, 2012.

State, U. S. Department of - Forensic Assistance Programs in East Asia Pacific (EAP) and Western Hemisphere (WHA)

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the following regions and countries: East Asia Pacific (Thailand and the Philippines) and the Western Hemisphere (Regional and Peru).

East Asia Pacific:

Thailand

Background: The United States continues to press the RTG to prosecute those responsible for human rights violations during the 2003 war on drugs. Forensics training for law enforcement and lawyers will enhance the provision of justice for victims in southern Thailand and enable more scientific-based prosecution of victims of human rights violations and their families.

Proposals will outline program concepts and capacity to manage projects to support forensics training, including for investigating human rights violations. Project activities may focus on enhancing the capacity to collect and analyze DNA samples for identifying victims of forced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and serious human rights abuses; training on forensic psychology; gathering and use of forensic clues; and increasing the capacity of local NGOs to conduct timely and reliable DNA testing.

Proposals must address at least one of the following topics:

Enhance that capability of law enforcement to prosecute human rights violators;
Creation of databases of family reference samples and of human skeletal remains to facilitate matching;
Provision of legal and psychological support to families of victims and missing persons;
Creation of an information-sharing network among NGOs to strengthen program productivity, efficacy, resources, and sustainability;
Facilitate increased national and international awareness regarding cases of extrajudicial killings and disappearances through coordination between victims' family associations and the broader NGO human rights community and outreach to key policymakers and the public at large.

The Philippines

Background: The United States continues to urge the Philippines to make greater progress in combating extrajudicial killings, particularly in prosecutions and convictions for the perpetrators of these crimes. Forensics capacity building for law enforcement will help fill a critical need and improve the prospects for successful prosecutions.

Proposals will outline program concepts and capacity to manage projects to support forensics training, including the collection and processing of forensic evidence in the investigation and prosecution of human rights violations. Project activities may include a focus on enhancing the capacity of law enforcement units to collect and analyze DNA samples and other forms of forensic evidence for identifying victims of forced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and serious human rights abuses and increasing the capacity of law enforcement units to conduct timely and reliable DNA testing.

Proposals must address at least one of the following topics:

Enhance the capability of law enforcement to investigate and prosecute human rights violators through improving their ability to collect and process forensic evidence;
Creation of databases of family reference samples and of human skeletal remains to facilitate matching.

Western Hemisphere:

WHA regional:

DRL seeks proposals that expand upon previous DRL-funded forensic assistance programs in Latin America. DRL seeks projects that will: enhance the capacity of indigenous forensic anthropology organizations to collect and analyze DNA samples to identify victims of forced disappearances and other serious human rights abuses; and that will empower families of victims and survivors of forced disappearances, particularly among indigenous people and other vulnerable groups, to combat political and societal marginalization through effective political participation and exercise of civil and political rights, includingthrough advocating for justice and restitution for victims. Proposals must address at least one of the following topics:

Utilization of the FAFG (Guatemala Forensic Anthropology Foundation) DNA analysis laboratory in Guatemala as a focal point for forensic anthropology analysis and identification that can support efforts at DNA analysis and justice/reconciliation efforts within the region (including, but not limited to Peru, El Salvador, Mexico and Argentina). Proposals may include training-in-residence of personnel from indigenous forensic anthropology teams and/or civil society organizations engaged on these issues from throughout the region at the Guatemala laboratory and/or may use the Guatemalan laboratory to process samples collected in other countries within the region;
Activities to foster capacity-building, greater coordination and information sharing among Latin American civil society organizations or forensic anthropology groups working on these issues, including the development of networks for information sharing, best practices in the provision of psychosocial services, legal assistance, and/or advocacy activities, and efforts to better integrate the victims and their families into political processes.

Peru:

In Peru, DRL seeks proposals that address one or more of the following topics:

Exhumation of mass graves dating back to the 1980's, and identification of victims' remains as a result of families' own advocacy with government institutions;
Facilitation of increased national, regional and international awareness regarding cases of forced disappearances through coordination between victims' family associations and the broader NGO human rights community, including through outreach to key opinion makers, policy makers and the public at large. Please note that international awareness raising activities should be limited and fully justified;
Building the capacity of Peruvian Forensic Anthropology Team’s (EPAF) efforts to use DNA analysis to identify victims of forced disappearances and other serious human rights abuses. This can include training of Peruvian experts or processing of exhumed Peruvian samples at the FAFG laboratory in Guatemala;
Enabling EPAF to work with the relevant prosecutorial and other government authorities on human rights cases including forced disappearance cases.
Establishing legal representative associations for the families of victims in Peru to combat political and societal marginalization and foster effective political participation. Efforts can include organizing and advocating for government investigations into forced disappearances and other serious human rights abuses;
Provision of psychological services to victims' families.

For more information on this competition see: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=55090

Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than three (3) proposals.

Because the Department of State limits eligible applicants to a total of only three proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to send the following information electronically to the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, June 21, 2010:

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as one of UK's candidates - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicants. The Department of State deadline is July 14, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Global Connections and Exchange Program

The Youth Programs Division, Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for two or three projects under the Global Connections and Exchange Program (GCE) in the following countries worldwide: Bolivia, Botswana, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mongolia, Namibia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Oman, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Samoa, Tajikistan, Thailand, Venezuela, Vietnam, and the United States. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501c(3) may submit proposals to facilitate online and face-to-face exchanges between overseas schools and/or community youth organizations and counterparts in the United States. The Global Connections and Exchange Program utilizes technology to create a U.S. presence in areas where many citizens may have little opportunity to travel or participate in exchange programs. Through web chats and discussion boards, foreign teachers, students/youths and youth leaders participate in dialogues with U.S. peers about their lives, families and communities. In addition, theme-based curriculum projects will increase understanding of issues relevant to both U.S. and overseas participants and harness their energies to effect positive change in their communities.

Further information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Applicants may submit only one proposal (total). If multiple proposals are received from the same applicant, all submissions will be declared ineligible and given no further consideration in the review process.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, April 7, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel, countries selected and names of partners in each country,
Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

State, U.S. Department of – Global Connections and Exchange Programs: Global Connections 2.0 and Global Connections Afghanistan

The Youth Programs Division, Office of Citizen Exchanges, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for two discrete projects under the Global Connections and Exchange (GCE) Program.

The new Global Connections 2.0 program will engage students and educators in the Middle East and North Africa and their counterparts in the United States. The program will include the selection and training of participants and the provision of a curriculum that facilitates collaboration around global themes. The Bureau expects to award one cooperative agreement of up to $750,000 under this program for a project lasting 24- 36 months beginning on or about September 1, 2012.
The Global Connections Afghanistan program will link students and teachers in the United States and Afghanistan online in order to promote dialogue and discovery among youth in these two societies. Applicant organizations will select, train, and match the secondary school participants and provide a structured online forum for facilitated discussion and joint projects. Applicants must have their own partner organization or branch office in Afghanistan. The Bureau expects to award one cooperative agreement of $150,000 under this program for a project lasting 12- 18 months beginning on or about September 1, 2012.

There is no minimum or maximum cost share percentage required for this competition, however, applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=166554

Organizational Limit: An organization may submit up to two proposals in this competition, one for each project.

Internal Competition: Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit two proposals in this competition, one for each project, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, May 7, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Specify the program to which the proposal is responding (i.e., Global Connections 2.0 or Global Connects Afghanistan)
Project overview (1-2 pages) – a project description that includes the strategy for identifying international partners and U.S. schools, curriculum theme(s), and a plan for holding online discussions
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Department of State deadline is June 4, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Global Connections and Exchange Programs: U.S.-Australia Virtual Environmental Partnership

The Youth Programs Division, Office of Citizen Exchanges, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for the new U.S.-Australia Virtual Environmental Partnership under the Global Connections and Exchange Program. Eligible applicants may submit proposals for programs that will use connective technologies to create collaborative environmental science projects on the theme of environmental water resources between eight American and eight Australian high schools. Applicant organizations will identify their own partner organization in Australia.

One cooperative agreement of $100,000 will be awarded. There is no minimum or maximum cost share percentage required for this competition, however, applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/synopsis.do;jsessionid=XTrkPXNbm2jpnhpQJnJVQvT4JHhlsxQjLFvvTxJxPVWt2JQhZTh6!-2135146600

Organizational Limit: An organization may submit up only one (1) proposal in this competition.

Internal Competition: Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one application in this competition, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, May 7, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Project overview (1-2 pages) – a project description that includes the strategy for identifying Australian and U.S. schools, and a description of the program activities (online collaborative activities, community engagement, and virtual project presentations)
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

State, U.S. Department of – Global Connections and Exchange: Youth TechCamps

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals to conduct seven- to ten-day, academically rigorous technology camps overseas for youth. The camps will be held in four to five of the 23 eligible countries/republics listed in the program solicitation. Through these intensive, in-person technology camps and follow-on virtual exchange components, up to 210 competitively selected U.S and non-U.S. secondary school students will be provided the opportunity to build their digital literacy skills, expand their understanding of the vast array of online resources that can be utilized to promote community engagement and foster change within their communities, and gain a deeper understanding of other countries’ cultures.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit only 1 (one) proposal under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=231097

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is May 28, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Global Human Rights Defenders Emergency Fund Near East and South Asia

Defenders of human rights often risk their own and their families’ lives, safety, and jobs to advocate for universally recognized human rights. The Department of State places a high priority on defending these individuals. An emergency fund within the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) supports human rights defenders who promote human rights, democracy and good governance, women’s rights, fair labor practices, independent media and journalism, and other issues that may raise the risk of safety and/or life for their defenders.

DRL seeks proposals for effective and immediate approaches to disburse small, short-term emergency financial support to human rights defenders and advocates of human rights globally or regionally when the repression or restriction of basic human rights may occur. DRL encourages applicants to submit proposals that include strategies to target all kinds of human rights activists, including those who promote the rights of marginalized populations, including the LGBT community, labor rights activists, and religious rights activists.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/c12302.htm.

Because the Department of State will accept only one proposal from an organization, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Friday, November 6, 2009:

Name and department of the Principal Investigator
Names of international partners
Project overview (4 pages maximum) include program objectives, a description of the network in the countries in which the applicant proposes to work, and the vetting process and mechanisms to provide assistance to human rights defenders.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Haiti Criminal Law Training Programs

The rule of law in Haiti is underdeveloped and ineffective. The institutions and norms necessary for an effective and efficient criminal justice system are unclear to stakeholders, with many actors ignorant of the law and lacking in an understanding of their roles and obligations to litigants and other justice sector stakeholders.

With this request for grant proposals, the Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) seeks unique, sustainable, technically sound approaches that will arm justice sector actors with the necessary information, material and skills, enabling them to increase their capacity to process cases more efficiently, and thus reduce the number of persons in pre-trial detention. The applicant should be able to demonstrate a firm understanding of Haitian law (current and pending) as well as the obstacles impeding the efficient process of persons in Haiti’s criminal justice system and in the administration of justice in Haiti generally. The main objective is to address the underlying problems in Haiti’s criminal justice system that perpetuates inefficiencies and inequities in the administration of justice.

The award ceiling is $1.0 million and the award floor is $700,000. Proposals that request less than the award floor or more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible. The award may be extended up to three years based on INL’s program priorities, good performance on the award, and pending funding availability.

Cost sharing is strongly encouraged but not required.

Further information can be found at:
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=136314

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, January 19, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Project overview (1-2 pages) – brief description of activities
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is January 30, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Haiti National Police Recruitment Program and Public Relations Campaign

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) seeks applications from qualified organizations to implement a multimedia public relations and recruitment strategy in support of the Haitian National Police. The main objectives are to produce a strategy and a supporting set of media products that leads to increased recruitment, particularly of women, and improves the public perception of the HNP, as well as increase the capability of the HNP to conduct recruitment and outreach activities. INL anticipates making only one award; the award floor is $500,000 and the award ceiling is $1.0 million. Proposals that request less than the award floor or more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible. The award period of performance is one year and may be extended up to three years pending funding availability, INL’s program priorities, and the recipient’s performance on the award. Cost sharing is strongly encouraged but not required. Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=145193 An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Project overview (1-2 pages) – brief project description describing the problem and how it will be addressed. Also state the goal(s), expected results, and intended impact of the project.
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is March 19, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Human Rights Initiatives in Iraq

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals to promote human rights and advance the rule of law in Iraq. To address critical human rights challenges, DRL announces an open competition for assistance awards from the U.S. Department of State’s Fiscal Year 2010 Economic Support Funds from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that support human rights and rule of law programs in Iraq. Organizations should have a demonstrated capacity to work in Iraq on human rights-related issues.

For more information on this competition see: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=54159
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than one proposal addressing this RFP.

Because the Department of State limits eligible applicants to a total of only one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to send the following information electronically to the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Friday, May 7, 2010:

List the specific limited submission program - US Dept. of State - Human Rights Initiatives in Iraq
Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's applicant - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is May 27, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Increasing Cohesive Civil Society Action on Human Rights and Citizen Security in Honduras

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals for a 24-month project aimed at improving respect for human rights in Honduras by promoting an effective and constructive role for civil society organizations in the development and implementation of public security and police reform efforts. The project should facilitate the capacity of Honduran civil society organizations (CSOs) to partner with the Government of Honduras (GOH) in defining the nation’s citizen security threats and proposed GOH solutions.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=205893

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is December 7, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of – International Labor Programs

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote the strengthening of civil society and labor rights in the following regions and countries: Africa (Democratic Republic of Congo); the Near East (Jordan); East Asia Pacific (Indonesia; Philippines), South Asia (Maldives; Pakistan); and the Western Hemisphere (Colombia).

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues:

Africa:

Democratic Republic of the Congo (approximately $700,000): DRL seeks proposals to strengthen respect for worker rights in extractive industries. Successful proposals will seek to develop sustainable approaches to improving worker rights through activities that may include capacity-building for worker organizations; awareness-raising about relevant laws; training and livelihoods support for vulnerable populations; and/or supply chain engagement to promote identification and remediation of labor law violations in the extractive sector.

Near East:

Jordan (approximately $750,000): DRL seeks proposals for projects aimed at increasing respect for internationally recognized labor rights and improving working and living conditions for workers, particularly foreign migrant workers. Specific activities may include efforts to raise awareness of workers’ rights, standardize the use of written labor contracts, build the capacity of organizations supporting or advocating for these workers, encourage increased organization and representation of foreign workers in worker organizations, provide direct legal or other support to such workers in defense of their rights and interests, and promote a culture of respect for such workers. Successful projects will coordinate with other ongoing programs to protect the rights of foreign workers in Jordan.

East Asia Pacific:

Indonesia (approximately $900,000): DRL seeks proposals to strengthen civil society and improve respect for worker rights – particularly in the areas of freedom of association and collective bargaining. Activities may include capacity-building and organizing for worker organizations (including labor unions, associations, labor lawyers, recruitment firms, and other groups or collectives), awareness-raising about relevant laws, and/or engagement in multi-stakeholders and supply-chain efforts to improve working conditions. Activities may also include training regarding implementation of existing laws and technical assistance for the development of implementing regulations for representatives of government, particularly at the local level.

Philippines (approximately $750,000): DRL seeks proposals to strengthen respect for freedom of association and collective bargaining. Activities may include training and capacity building for government officials, worker organizations, employers, and individual workers to promote protection of worker rights and effective social dialogue. Activities may also include efforts to raise awareness of internationally recognized worker rights, improve implementation of labor law, and provide legal assistance to victims of labor rights violations. Successful proposals will include a gender component addressing the specific challenges facing female workers in the exercise of their right to organize and build on and coordinate with ongoing projects to advance worker rights.

South Asia:

Maldives (approximately $300,000): DRL seeks proposals to promote respect for worker rights, particularly in the areas of freedom of association, collective bargaining, and protection of migrant worker rights in the context of new laws to protect the right to organize. Project activities may include raising awareness of new laws, building the capacity of worker organizations, and providing training and technical assistance to representatives of workers and/or employers. Successful programs will collaborate with ongoing initiatives to improve respect for worker rights.

Pakistan (approximately $800,000): DRL seeks proposals to support innovative and sustainable approaches to promote the rights and interests of informal sector workers, particularly home-based women workers. Programs should directly involve and support local organizations, potentially through sub-grants at levels appropriate to organizational capacity, to provide services to home-based and other informal sector workers. Such services may include non-formal education, rights awareness training, skills training, leadership training, and income generation activities. Proposals that enhance home-based and informal workers’ ability to advocate for formal legal and social protections under provincial/national laws and that can be replicated on a regional, national, and/or global basis will be highly favored. Proposals that include innovative strategies to organize and strengthen communication among home-based and other informal sector workers will also be favored.

Western Hemisphere:

Colombia (approximately $900,000): DRL seeks to fund one or more projects to promote the worker rights of traditionally marginalized groups with a particular focus on indigenous, Afro-Colombian, and women workers. Specific activities may include strengthening efforts to combat workplace discrimination, encouraging equal opportunities, raising awareness about worker rights, and/or providing support to civil society organizations, including unions, to organize and assist these workers. Activities may also include initiatives to improve livelihoods through training and linkages to alternative employment opportunities. Successful proposals will coordinate effectively with ongoing projects in Colombia to improve working and living conditions for vulnerable workers.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=74874
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than five (5) proposals. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of the announcement and PSI may not be considered. Proposals that combine target countries and/or themes may be deemed technically ineligible. Proposals that request less than the award floor or more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit five proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, March 10, 2011

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel, and target country,

Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is April 1, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – International Police Education and Training Program

The United States Government, represented by the Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office of Criminal Justice Assistance and Partnership (State/INL/CAP), is seeking applications from qualified U.S. organizations with the requisite capability and experience to establish and manage a program of professional training and exchanges for foreign and U.S. police officials.

The Grant award will be up to $450,000 for the initial two years, with the option to extend for an additional three years, based on funding availability.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=101933
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit only one proposal.

Because the Department of State only allows an applicant to submit only one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, July 7, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel,,

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is July 22, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – International Sports Programming Initiative

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for the International Sports Programming Initiative. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3) may submit proposals for projects designed to reach out to youth and promote mutual understanding by increasing the professional capacity of those who design and manage youth sports programs in select countries in Africa, East Asia and the Pacific, the Near East and North Africa, South and Central Asia, Europe, and the Western Hemisphere. The focus of all programs must be on reaching out to both male and female youth ages 7-17 and/or their coaches/administrators. Programs designed to train elite athletes or coaches will not be considered.

Eligible countries and territories in each region are: Africa: Botswana, Cote d'Ivoire, Kenya, Mali, and Nigeria; East Asia and the Pacific: China, Malaysia, or a multi-country program that MUST include AT LEAST TWO of the following – Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and/or Vietnam; Near East and North Africa: Egypt, Tunisia, or a program that MUST include both Israel and West Bank/Gaza; South and Central Asia: Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Turkmenistan; Europe: Bosnia and Turkey; and the Western Hemisphere: Belize, Brazil, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, and Uruguay. Proposals may address multiple countries, but all the countries must then be in the same region.

Themes:

(1) Youth Sports Engagement – Exchanges funded under this theme will focus on effective ways that sport can play a role in youth development at the grassroots level, while promoting technical proficiency among the youth sport coaches, sport administrators, and/or sport officials participating in the program. The role that sports can play in the long-term well-being of underserved youth should also be emphasized. Through exchanges between youth sport coaches, sport administrators, and/or sport officials, programs should encourage participants to share experiences in managing, organizing, and developing programs for youth sports activities with the aim of exposing young people to the ideas of teamwork and self-discipline that can lead to success in other aspects of their lives.

(2) Sport and Health – Exchanges funded under this theme will focus on increasing awareness among young people of the importance of following a healthy lifestyle. Project goals should aim to avoid substance abuse, enhance physical fitness in order to prevent illness, and raise the overall quality of life through sports. Emphasis should be on the responsibility of the broader community to support healthy behaviors, and to educate young people how to prevent and manage non-communicable or infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, through sports programs.

(3) Sport and Disability – Exchanges funded under this theme are designed to promote and sponsor sport, recreation, and fitness programs for persons with disabilities. Project goals should include improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities by providing affordable, inclusive sports experiences that build self-esteem and confidence, enhancing active participation in community life, and making a significant contribution to the physical and psychological health of people with disabilities. Proposals under this theme aim to demonstrate that persons with disabilities can be included in sports opportunities in their communities, and will develop opportunities for them to do so. In addition, projects should aim to raise the awareness of non-disabled people about contributions that persons with disabilities make to society.

(4) Sport for Social Change – Exchanges funded under this theme will focus on effective ways that sport can play a role in promoting more stable and inclusive communities, and as an alternative to anti-social behavior. Project goals should include the importance of leadership, responsibility, teamwork, healthy living, and self-discipline to demonstrate how organized sports can encourage youth to stay in school, avoid substance abuse, prevent violence, and mitigate extremist voices. In addition, projects should aim to include the use of sport as a tool to promote tolerance and understanding through organized activities that appeal to youth and youth influencers, and that focus on conflict prevention/resolution.

Projects under this competition may range in length from one to three years.

The award floor for this competition is $60,000; the award ceiling is $225,000. No guarantee is made or implied that grants will be awarded in all themes or for all countries listed.

Cost sharing or matching funds: There is no minimum or maximum percentage required for this competition. However, the Bureau encourages applicants to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding in support of its programs. In particular, applicants are strongly encouraged to cost share a portion of overhead and administrative expenses.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=134573

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal for this competition. Organizations that submit proposals that exceed these limits will result in having all of their proposals declared technically ineligible.

Names and departments of UK Project Director, key personnel, and the target country(ies)
Project summary – identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and overview of activities (2 pages maximum)
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is February 3, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – International Visitor Leadership Program Assistance Award

The Office of International Visitors, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for up to six assistance awards to administer the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The IVLP is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. Launched in 1940, the IVLP seeks to build mutual understanding between the U.S. and other nations through carefully designed short-term visits to the U.S. for current and emerging foreign leaders. These visits reflect the International Visitors’ professional interests and support the foreign policy goals of the United States. The assistance awards, all together, will support programming for approximately 4,800 International Visitors. Organizations must submit a proposal that falls between the floor of $500,000 and the ceiling of $5,245,000. It is the Bureau’s intent to award not more than six cooperative agreements (one base year plus two option years) for an estimated total amount of thirty-six months.

Cost Sharing: Cost sharing is strongly encouraged.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://eca.state.gov/files/bureau/npa_rfgp_2014.pdf

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is June 7, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Internet Freedom Annual Program Statement for Internet Freedom Technology

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) invites organizations to submit statements of interest (SOI) outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects that will foster freedom of expression and the free flow of information on the Internet and other connection technologies around the world. This announcement does not constitute a formal Request for Proposals: DRL will invite select organizations that submit SOIs to expand on their ideas via full proposal separately.

Applications focused globally, or focused on any region or country will be considered.

SOIs should address one or more of the following potential program themes related to supporting the free flow of information and digital activists:

Technology Expanding Open and Uncensored Access to Information and Communications
Secure Communication Technology

Activities that are typically given serious consideration for funding include, but are by no means limited to:

High-risk, high-reward technology development for original, not yet in use anti-censorship and secure communications tools, built on and suitable for a realistic threat model, including a clear path towards full development and initial pilot deployments, with eventual widespread deployment;
Expansions of functionality, improvements in usability, or localization for existing, tested Internet freedom-advancing software tools, along with training and support efforts for use of such tools in environments with significant Internet surveillance and/or repression;
Comprehensive solutions incorporating and merging new, modified, and existing technologies to address specific unsolved or under-solved real-world Internet freedom challenges, where project activity includes partnerships with civil society organizations in the field along with customizations and packaging to target precise, local needs.

Cost Sharing: Cost sharing is strongly encouraged and viewed favorably.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than two (2) SOIs per quarter

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=229195

Submission Deadlines: SOI submissions will be reviewed on at least a quarterly basis according to the following deadlines:

May 31, 2013
August 30, 2013
November 29, 2013
February 28, 2014

State, U.S. Department of - Iraq Elections-Related Proposals and Iraq Post-Election Initiative Proposals

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) requests proposals under two separate initiatives to support the advancement of democracy inside Iraq. Projects should directly support the overall goal of the strategy: Iraqi citizens, civil society and democratic institutions work cooperatively to reduce violence and build a sustainable, accountable and responsive system of governance. Organizations should have a demonstrated capacity to work in Iraq on democracy-related issues. This request for proposals does not guarantee funding and is subject to Congressional approval of DRL’s spending plan as well as approval by the Assistant Secretary of DRL and the Office of Acquisitions and Management.

Dept. of State Program #1 - Iraq Elections-Related Proposals

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects that address the first of the three strategic objectives of the strategy: Institutionalize democratic, political and legislative processes that resolve disputes peacefully. Proposals should provide a compelling country-oriented rationale and comprehensively outline and develop program concepts and capacity to manage projects that will address one or more of the following priorities:

Projects that build the capacity of civil society organizations to conduct election-related activities, including voter education, voter registration, election observation and observer training, polling activities, and get-out-the-vote activities for the national elections for the Council of Representatives and other upcoming Iraqi elections.
Projects that include election-related training for political parties or media.
Projects that facilitate improved election-related communication between government officials and Iraqi citizens at the local, provincial, and national levels.
Projects that promote the participation of youth, women, and minorities in political processes.

Proposals should address coordination with the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) and with the international community and other USG-funded entities in Iraq, if applicable.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/125915.htm.

Dept. of State Program #2 - Iraq Post-Election Initiative Proposals

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects that address one or more of the three strategic objectives of the strategy:

Institutionalize democratic, political and legislative processes that resolve disputes peacefully;
Improve capacity and accountability at all levels of government; and
Foster the environment for and development of Iraq’s civil society and media to operate independently, freely and effectively.

Proposals should provide a compelling country-oriented rationale and comprehensively outline and develop program concepts and capacity to manage projects that will adress one or more of the following priorities in the post-national election period:

Projects that enhance the capacity of Iraq’s public administration and the Council of Representatives to perform core functions in the post-national election period, including consensus-building, policy analysis, bill drafting, budgeting, constituent relations, administration, and improved oversight of executive branch agencies.
Projects that foster dialogue, transparency, and responsiveness in the legislative process.
Projects that assist Iraqis with the enactment of laws and other grassroots activities that contribute to national reconciliation or advancing key pieces of legislation, including legislation related to human rights issues.
Projects that contribute to cross-sectarian dialogue, consensus-building, tolerance, and reconciliation in the post-national election period.
Projects that strengthen democratic political institutions to facilitate effective pluralistic governance and promote the participation of youth, women, and minorities in political processes.
Projects that strengthen the organizational capacity, sustainability, and accountability of civil society to effectively engage in the democratic process.
Projects that encourage and facilitate dialogue among Iraqi civil society, Iraqi local and national governments, and international actors.
Projects that support the development of professionalism, sustainability, and editorial independence of Iraqi media, including strengthening the regulatory framework for independent media and freedom of expression.

Proposals should address coordination with the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) and with the international community and other USG-funded entities in Iraq, if applicable.

The full announcement can be accessed at http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/125916.htm.

Because the Department of State will accept only one application from an organization for each of the two programs, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in responding are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Tuesday, July 21, 2009:

Name and department of the Project Director
Identify Program - #1 Iraq Election or #2 Iraq Post-Election Initiative
Project overview (2-3 pages) – briefly describe project objectives, proposed activities, innovative aspects of the proposed program, elements of sustainability that will have a lasting impact and applicant’s related experience.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Iraq Programs with Organizational Limits

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces 3 Requests for Proposals for projects that promote human rights and the rule of law in Iraq.

Internal Notification: Due to the organizational limits for these RFPs, interested applicants must notify the Proposal Development Office ( PDO@uky.edu or 257-2861) of intent to apply by Tuesday, May 29, 2012.

Promoting Human Rights and Rule of Law in Iraq (http://www.state.gov/j/drl/p/166462.htm)

Proposed programs should build upon existing efforts in civil society, democratic governance, increasing transparency in the criminal justice system, promoting cooperation between civilians and police, or establishing a documentation center within an existing institution to serve as a repository for human rights abuse case information.
Organizational Limit: An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Promoting the Rights and Protection of At-Risk Iraqis (http://www.state.gov/j/drl/p/143474.htm)

This program includes three categories—(1) Assessment of Gender Based Violence in Iraq, (2) Gender-Based Violence Programs, and (3) Promoting the Rights, Protection, and Physical Security of Marginalized and At-Risk Iraqis.
Organizational Limit: An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal in each of the 3 program categories

Improving the Legal and Regulatory Environment for Iraqi Media (http://www.state.gov/j/drl/p/163236.htm)

Projects must support the creation of legal and regulatory frameworks for media consistent with international standards of press freedom.
Organizational Limit: An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline for each of these three programs is June 21, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Iraqi Women's Democracy Initiative

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights, and rule of law in the Near East Region, Iraq. Through the Iraqi Women’s Democracy Initiative, organizations will work to advance the core objectives of the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security for the following two pillars:

Women’s Political Participation in Decision Making: Women and the 2014 Elections (Approximately $800,000 available)
Prevention of Violence: Women’s Leadership in Ending Violence (Approximately $900,000 available)

Proposals that combine target countries and/or themes may be deemed technically ineligible. Proposals that request less than the award floor ($800,000) or more than the award ceiling ($900,000) will be deemed technically ineligible.

Further information can be found at:
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=159853

An organization may submit no more than three (3) proposals.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit three proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Friday, April 20, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Identify the specific pillar that is the focus of the project – Women’s Political Participation in Decision Making or Prevention of Violence
A description of the program’s concepts and the organization’s capacity to manage the project

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations. The Dept. of State deadline is May 1, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Jefferson Science Fellows

The Jefferson Science Fellows (JSF) program at the U.S. Department of State, initiated in 2003, established a model for engaging the American academic science, technology, and engineering (STE) communities in the formulation and implementation of U.S. foreign policy. The JSF program is administered by the National Academies and supported through a partnership between the U.S. STE academic community, professional scientific societies, and the U.S. Department of State.

Tenured academic scientists and engineers from U.S. institutions of higher learning are eligible for selection to be Jefferson Science Fellows. Each Fellow will spend one year at the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for an on-site assignment in Washington, D.C. that may also involve extended stays at U.S. foreign embassies and/or missions. All JSF assignments will be designed in consultation with regional and/or functional bureaus within the U.S. Department of State/USAID. While in general JSF assignments will involve providing up-to-date expertise in the rapidly advancing STE arenas that routinely impact the policy decisions encountered by the U.S. Department of State/USAID, each Fellow will also be expected to become conversant with the functional operation of the U.S. Department of State/USAID. In doing so, the JSF program complements and enhances the existing efforts by both the continuing employees within the U.S. Department of State/USAID and other temporary fellows supported by non-governmental organizations who address STE issues. Following the fellowship year, the Jefferson Science Fellow will return to his/her academic career, but will remain available to the U.S. Department of State/USAID for short-term projects over the following five years.

Nominations and applications are limited to scientists, technologists, and engineers holding a tenured faculty appointment at a U.S. college or university.

Eligible nominees and applicants will be evaluated using the following criteria:

Ability to articulate science and technology issues to the non-specialist/general public.
Ability to rapidly and accurately understand scientific advancements outside their discipline area and to effectively integrate this knowledge into U.S. Department of State policy discussions.
Open-mindedness and receptive attitudes toward public policy discussions at the U.S. Department of State/USAID.
Stature, recognition and experience in the national and international scientific or engineering community.

Those individuals offered JSF awards must successfully complete and maintain security clearances required for them to undertake their duties within the U.S. Department of State/USAID.

Additional guidelines and a list of the current Fellows are available at: http://www7.nationalacademies.org/Jefferson/

Most recent internal deadline: December 2, 2008.

Most recent external deadline: January 15, 2009.

State, U. S. Department of – Jóvenes en Acción Program

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for Jóvenes en Acción (Youth in Action), an exchange program for Mexican high school students. Eligible applicants may submit proposals to provide participants with a four- to five-week summer exchange program in the United States focused on civic education, community service, and youth leadership development and to support the implementation of service projects in their home communities. This program will be funded as a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of State, the Mexican government, and the private sector. ECA funding will support U.S.-based activities for two exchanges for approximately 35 participants each year; one will take place during summer 2013 and the second will take place during summer 2014.

One cooperative agreement of up to $350,000 will be awarded for this program. Applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding.

Further information can be found at:
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=159974

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
A short description (1-2 pages) of how the program will be administered and the kinds of activities in which the students will participate
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 17, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of – Labor Strengthening and Capacity Building in the Middle East and Burma

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights, and rule of law in the Middle East and Burma. The award floor for the Middle East Regional program is $200,000 and the ceiling is $600,000; the award floor for the Morocco program is $300,000 and the ceiling is $1,000,000; and the award floor for the Burma program is $250,000 and the ceiling is $450,000.

An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal per project listed in this announcement.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=175933

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is July 10, 2012.

State, U. S. Department of – Law Enforcement and Rule of Law Programs in Afghanistan

The Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office for Afghanistan and Pakistan is focused on directing and overseeing critical foreign assistance programs pertaining to counternarcotics, crime, rule of law and law enforcement training in Afghanistan and is seeking applications from qualified U.S. Afghan and International non-governmental organizations with the requisite capacity and experience to implement rule of law programs in Afghanistan. Specifically, organizations will be asked to provide technical assistance, training, advice, and direct assistance to criminal justice professionals on criminal law and procedures with the goal of improving the overall competence of the Afghan justice and penal sectors, enhance professional development and legal education, facilitate access to and demand for justice, protect the rights of victims, witnesses, and defendants, and improve opportunities for women and minorities.

TARGET THEMES AND COUNTRIES
INL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the issues presented below. Organizations may submit grant proposals for programs that facilitate improvements in legal education, understanding of criminal and civil law, police and prosecutor cooperation, access to and demand for justice, the treatment and rehabilitation of prisoners, protect the rights of victims, witnesses, and defendants, and build technical capacity in justice institutions. Areas of emphasis could include legal public affairs and public awareness programs, legal training and education reform, support to Afghan civil society organizations, women’s legal issues and violence against women, and anti-corruption related initiatives. Priority will be given to proposals that contain components supporting the equitable protection of women, minorities and juveniles in line with the Afghan Constitution and all relevant international treaties that have been endorsed by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan or that include capacity building initiatives or partnerships with Afghan Non-Governmental Organizations.

For more information on this competition see: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=53459
Click on Full Announcement under the title of the program.

An organization may submit no more than three proposals.

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project (include region and theme chosen)
Description of proposed project and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as one of UK's candidates - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicants. The Department of State deadline is May 3, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of – Law Enforcement and Rule of Law Programs for Countries in Central America (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama)

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) announces a request for proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for forensics laboratory, law enforcement and investigatory capabilities projects in Central America.

INL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues throughout Central America:

CARSI Strategic Objective: Governing Justly and Democratically.

Project: Forensics Capacity Building

Up to$1,500,000 available: INL seeks proposals that will assist in building the capacity of Central American countries to collect, analyze, and present in a legal proceeding forensic evidence to reduce criminal impunity and improve citizen safety.

These proposals may include targeted technical assistance, training, and equipment expenditures to address crime scene forensics evidence collection and management; improve forensics laboratory capacity; and enhance judicial system actor’s capabilities to use that forensic evidence appropriately. Forensic procedural training and recommendations on equipment or low tech solutions may be required. All programs will be coordinated with assessments being conducted by INL forensics advisor.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=91513
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than five (5) proposals.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Country(ies) selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 31, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of – Legal Education Visiting Scholar Program - Afghanistan

Strengthening rule of law is a key foreign policy objective and integral to the United States Government’s overall effort to ensure peace and stability in Afghanistan. USG programs in rule of law, implemented through the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), are focused on building the capacity of justice institutions, enhancing legal education, increasing opportunities for minorities and women, improving access to justice and creating a demand for justice.

INL’s Office for Afghanistan and Pakistan Programs is focused on directing and overseeing critical foreign assistance activities pertaining to counternarcotics, crime, rule of law and law enforcement training in Afghanistan. The Office of Afghanistan and Pakistan Programs is now seeking applications from U.S. public/private/state institutions of higher education (or law schools) with American Bar Association accreditation and the requisite capacity and experience to implement rule of law education programs in Afghanistan. Specifically, the U.S. public/private/state institution of higher education (or law school) will develop and implement a visiting scholar program which consists of degree and non-degree study, a clinical education component, a pilot targeted partnership with Herat University Schools of Law and Sharia, a legal English program, research and library assistance, and a targeted partnership with a third-party university operating in a country with a significant Muslim population.

Project activities under this visiting scholar award must target Afghanistan, specifically Afghan legal education. Proposals must span a period of activity of not less than three (3) years with a maximum of five (5) years. Proposals must demonstrate support for sustainable improvement in the Afghan legal education system.

The award ceiling on any single award is $13.0 million and the award floor is $7.0 million, pending funding availability. Proposals that request less than the award floor or more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible.

Cost sharing is strongly encouraged and is viewed favorably.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=133773

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Specify program name: - US Dept. of State Legal Education Visiting Scholar Program Afghanistan
Project overview (1-2 pages) – brief description of activities
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds and suggests faculty effort be proposed as an in-kind match.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is January 17, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of – Libya: Supporting a Successful Democratic Transition

The U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) requests applications for projects to advance the democratic transition in Libya by addressing needs and opportunities that support the development of strong democratic institutions, as well as MEPI’s overarching goal of building participatory, pluralistic, and prosperous societies in which citizens have regular opportunities to play active roles in making decisions that affect their lives, promoting government responsiveness to their concerns, and holding their government accountable for its commitments; and have equal standing, protected by guaranteed rights and by an independent and effective legal system.

Applications must address one of the following five priority areas considered critical for the success of Libya’s transition. Each application must address a different priority and must clearly state the priority area their application addresses.

(a) Advocating for, influencing, and monitoring the implementation of constitutional frameworks;
(b) Developing government transparency and accountability measures at the national level;
(c) Developing democratic electoral and political processes, including a strong political party system and effective elected institutions;
(d) Supporting the professionalization and sustainability of independent media; or
(e) Supporting the rule of law.

Applicants not headquartered in Libya are required to partner with local organizations. Proposed projects should not duplicate similar activities funded by other donors, including other U.S. Government funders, and applicants should clearly articulate how proposed programming responds to gaps in existing assistance efforts.

Cost Sharing: Applicants are encouraged to provide cost-sharing (or matching) from additional sources in support of their proposed project. The inclusion of cost-sharing will be among the elements on which applications are evaluated.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit no more than two applications.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: https://www.grantsolutions.gov/gs/preaward/previewPublicAnnouncement.do?id=16849

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is April 4, 2013.

State, U. S. Department of – Macedonia Legal Socialization Program

The Department of State’s Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs seeks applications from qualified applicants for a program aimed at developing rule of law programs for Macedonian youth, with participation from Macedonian educators, law enforcement agencies and other justice sector officials. The goal of this project is to promote a rule of law culture among Macedonian youth by developing their awareness of their rights and responsibilities and the role of Macedonian criminal justice sector institutions. The sponsor anticipates making one award of $250,000 for a 12- 18 month performance period.

The Department of State will only accept one (1) proposal per organization under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=187213

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is August 15, 2012.

State, U. S. Department of – Maghreb Higher Education Delegation

The Department of State’s Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs (EB) invites U.S. non-profit/non-governmental organizations, as well as public and private institutions of higher education, to submit grant proposals that will offer unique, sustainable, technically sound approaches that will assist Maghreb (the Maghreb includes: Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia) officials and educators in informing them of community college and vocational training curricula and models. This will be accomplished by a delegation of education professionals and ensuing follow up.

EB will consider proposals from U.S. and Maghreb-based NGOs. Applicants must propose key personnel and trainers who are regional experts. EB’s mission is to build prosperity and economic security at home and abroad. We formulate and carry out U.S. foreign economic policy, and work to sustain a more democratic, secure, and prosperous world. To address the cross-cutting global challenges of this century successfully, we take a leadership role in establishing and maintaining new patterns of international economic cooperation. The initial period of performance will be for 12 months.

Limited Submission: Each applicant may submit only one proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=226593

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is April 11, 2013.

State, U. S. Department of – Malaysia Programs

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals (RFP) from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that support good governance, media assistance and religious tolerance in Malaysia.

Program Area #1: Good Governance (Approximately $500,000)

DRL seeks proposals aimed at strengthening political parties to promote accountability, integrity and effectiveness in representing party member and constituent interests, and, building legislative capacity of the national and state assemblies, and increasing the integrity of electoral systems. Programs may address these objectives through direct assistance to the government and political parties and/or promotion of public awareness and engagement on these areas.

Proposals should address one or more of the following areas:

Political party reforms in improved accountability to member and constituent interests; appropriate use of the media; promotion of youth participation; and development of women leaders;
Strengthening of the national and state assembly capacities to review legislation and fulfill other mandates including a better oversight of public expenditures, public agency activities, government budgeting, and procurement; and inclusion of women’s and human rights issues as a part of the legislative agenda;

Strengthening of the integrity and public trust in elections through activities that include voter registration audits; increased access to information from voter registration and electoral offices; improved procedures for campaigning and election-day operations; and increased transparency related to absentee voting.

Program Area #2: Civil Society (Approximately $500,000)

DRL seeks proposals aimed at: (1) promoting media and internet freedom; (2) promoting religious tolerance.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/130236.htm.

Each organization may submit up to 1 proposal for each program area (2 proposals in total), but must not combine activities for good governance and civil society in a single proposal.

Because the Department of State limits an institution to two applications, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Wednesday, October 14, 2009:

Names and departments of PI and key personnel
Specify Program Area (Good Governance or Civil Society)
Project narrative (maximum 4 pages) including a) a statement of work or synopsis of the program and its expected results, b) the project’s objectives and activities, c) the total amount of funding requested and program length, and d) a brief statement on how the project is innovative, sustainable, and will have a demonstrated impact.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of - Media Freedom, Civil Society and Human Rights

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations focused on fostering human rights, civil society and/ or media freedom in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

REQUESTED PROPOSAL PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

Proposals should clearly address the following areas:

Civil Society (approximately $550,000 available)

DRL seeks proposals for projects to build the capacity of both South Korean- and defector- led organizations to collaborate and to more effectively advocate for change in North Korea and/or develop the foundation of civil society in North Korea. Programs that include democracy or human rights-related exchange programs will also be considered.

Human Rights (approximately $500,000 available)

DRL seeks proposals that address the internal human rights situation in the DPRK, with a particular focus on programs that address women's issues, street children, persons with disabilities, or rule of law. Applicants should demonstrate a clear linkage between proposed activities and their intended impact inside the country.

and/or

DRL seeks proposals for programs that address one or a combination of the recommendations made by the international community during the DPRK Universal Periodic Review at the UN Human Rights Council Meeting in December 2009.

Media Freedom (approximately $250,000 available)

DRL seeks programs that creatively utilize new media or technologies to increase access to independent forms of information inside North Korea and allow for increased flow of information out of and within the closed country.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=72873
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than one proposal. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of the announcement and PSI may not be considered. Proposals that combine target areas may be deemed technically ineligible. Proposals that request more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible.

Because the Department of State only allows applicants to submit one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Tuesday, March 1, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The deadline is March 7, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Media and Youth in the Middle East and North Africa Region

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote youth empowerment through mobile and cinematic documentation. DRL’s objective is to support Middle East and North Africa (MENA) youth’s ability to use media as a platform to participate in human rights issues and ongoing democratic transitions.A successful project will build technical and advocacy skills that will help young, talented individuals, who lack the skills and/or opportunities, to communicate using video, radio, and Internet mediums in order to identify, articulate, and amplify the opinions and ideas they would like to share with their societies. Countries for this project must include any five or more of the following countries: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, UAE, and Yemen.

The award floor for this initiative is $300,000 and the award ceiling is $1,000,000. Proposals that do not meet this criterion will be deemed technically ineligible.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=163033

An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit two applications, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Wednesday, April 25, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
The countries of focus for the project (must include 5 or more from among the following: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, UAE, and Yemen)
A short description (1-2 pages) of how the project will build technical and advocacy skills among youth to help them communicate their opinions and ideas using media

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 8, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of – Mexico Federal Public Defender Program

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) has issued a Request for Cooperative Agreement Proposals for the Mexico Federal Public Defender Program. The overall objective of this program is to increase citizen’s access to justice in Mexico’s federal court system by providing federal public defenders and the federal public defender system with the requisite tools and information regarding their role in the criminal justice system, especially their role in the forthcoming adversarial system at the federal level.

This program is intended as a three-year project with a funding ceiling of up to $6,000,000 (six million dollars) during the three-year period, pending funding availability. Up to $2,000,000 will be available for the first year, with the possibility of funding at similar levels on an annual basis for two more years. There is the possibility of continued funding beyond three years based upon performance and availability of funds.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=103295
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit only one proposal.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel,,

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is September 16, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of – Mexico Merida Initiative Culture of Lawfulness Program

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs is seeking applications from qualified organizations to implement Culture of Lawfulness (COL) programs in Mexico. The overall objective of the Culture of Lawfulness program, which is funded by the Merida Initiative, is to instill a sense of individual responsibility for upholding the rule of law in Mexico and support the ability of Mexico’s citizens to participate in the law enforcement process. Promoting the rule of law, and reducing insecurity and corruption, requires societal support by what has come to be known as a Culture of Lawfulness. In particular, the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) aims to work with civil society organizations to implement programs that support COL principles across a variety of sectors, including education, law enforcement, mass media, health, private industry, and centers of moral authority such as religious associations.

INL will consider proposals for projects covering any region of Mexico. However, preference will be given to qualifying projects that address communities in the priority states of Chihuahua, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas, as well as in the Pilar IV priority communities of Ciudad Juarez, Monterrey, and Tijuana. The main objective is to strengthen the rule of law by encouraging citizen participation and support for law enforcement efforts and societal laws. This effort will contribute to a strong and resilient society that can withstand the pressures of crime, insecurity, and corruption.

Applicants may propose projects for one to two years. The award ceiling on any single award is $1.0 million and the award floor is $100,000, pending funding availability. Proposals that request less than the award floor or more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible. Based on INL’s program priorities, good performance on the award, and funding availability, the award may be extended up to five years.

Cost sharing is strongly encouraged but not required.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=133593

An organization may submit no more than three (3) proposals.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Specify program name – US Dept. of State Mexico Merida Initiative
Project overview (1-2 pages) – brief description of activities
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds and suggests faculty effort be proposed as an in-kind match.

State, U.S. Dept. of – Mexico Merida Initiative Diagnostic Study for the Drug Court in Guadalupe, Nuevo León

The Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is seeking applications from qualified organizations to conduct a diagnostic study of the drug court program in Guadalupe, Nuevo León, a municipality located in the Monterrey metropolitan area, and to provide an evaluation framework and recommendations for the expansion of drug courts in Mexico. The drug court in Nuevo León is the only one of its kind in Mexico, and it is considered an important part of Mexico’s drug demand reduction efforts.

The Bureau intends to make one award of up to $200,000 for a performance period of up to 15 months.

Limited Submission: Each applicant may submit no more than one proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=204933

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is November 26, 2012.

State, U.S. Dept. of – Mexico Merida Initiative Litigation Workshop, Mexico City

The U.S. Department of State; Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs seeks proposals to provide one forty-hour litigation workshop as part of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (UNAM) "Diplomado en Sistema Penal Acusatorio y Derechos Humanos" (Diplomado). The litigation workshop will be offered to students enrolled in the Diplomado over the course of two-weeks. The recipient organization will be responsible for providing one forty-hour litigation workshop in Mexico City, over the course of two weeks to approximately 110 students, many of which are federal and local judges and magistrates. Workshop goals are: (1) to support Mexico's transition and implementation of an oral, adversarial and accusatory criminal justice system, and (2) to address important institutional weaknesses, particularly those which exacerbate the problem of impunity.

Limited Submission: Each applicant may submit no more than 1 (one) proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=213913

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is February 15, 2013.

State, U.S. Dept. of – Middle East Initiatives

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the following regions and countries (unless otherwise noted): Algeria, Bahrain, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, West Bank/Gaza, and Yemen.

DRL invites organizations to submit proposals outlining program concepts and capacity to manage projects targeting the following issues:

Transitional Justice and Reconciliation for the Middle East and North Africa (approximately $1,200,000):

DRL will fund one program for up to $1,200,000 which will respond to transitional justice and reconciliation issues as they arise in the broader Middle East region. This program will provide the flexibility to respond to changes on the ground that offersnew opportunities (such as the creation of tribunal or truth commission) or challenges (such as a severe crackdown that involves egregious human rights abuses). Program activities under this grant could range from supporting the initial creation of a tribunal, to gathering and preservingevidence, to documenting human rights abuses to allow for justice and development in the future. (This project should not include programming for West Bank/Gaza).

Labor (approximately $2,000,000):

DRL will fund up to two grants to support activities that promote democratic practices within worker organizations and build their capacity to respond to social and economic challenges. Activities may include:

training and capacity building to strengthen democratic practices in workers organizations, make unions and worker associations more representative of members, and to increase the presence of women and youth in leadership positions;
assistance in developing policy positions and strategic plans for worker organizations, as well as efforts to connect workers and their organizations more effectively with other civil society organizations advocating on related issues;
raising awareness of labor rights among workers and employers and improving the economic, social, and legal literacy of workers;
training for labor leaders and activists to organize and recruit new members, particularly marginalized workers, such as women, youth, and/or informal sector workers;
skills-building related to collective bargaining and conflict resolution for workers, employers, and/or government representatives;
development of a network of activists and/or a mechanism for sharing good practices among workers and independent worker organizations to promote learning and solidarity across the region.

DRL plans to strengthen labor organizations and to enable workers to play a constructive role in the policy process in a number of Middle Eastern countries. Proposals must include activities in Bahrain and Oman and may also include: Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, the West Bank/Gaza, or Yemen.

Gender Based Violence (approximately $500,000):

DRL will fund one regional grant to support activities that work to protect women in countries undergoing transition or upheaval who have suffered from, or been threatened by, gender-based violence because of their political engagement. DRL would like to build the capacity of local or regional organizations who work with women’s organizations or advocacy groups who can provide women with personal security training, networking as well as increased access to medical, psychological, social, and legal, services for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. DRL will accept proposals for targeted GBV programming in any of the countries listed in the Summary above, but proposals are encouraged for activities in or related to Bahrain, Egypt, Libya or Tunisia.

Protection for Religious Freedoms (approximately $500,000):

DRL will fund one initiative to support programming to protect and promote religious tolerance, pluralism, and the fundamental human right of freedom of religion. Special emphasis will be placed on engaging youth and women. These funds will be used to respond to Religious Freedoms issues as they arise in the Middle East and North Africa, excluding Iran and Iraq. This initiative is designed as a Small Grants Program, to be administered by one Grantee Organization. The Grantee Organization will disburse and manage innovative small grants that defend and/or support religious freedom and tolerance. The selected Grantee Organization will ensure that all organizations receiving small grants work closely with the U.S. embassy in country, DRL, and UN mission (as appropriate).

Initiatives can include, but are not limited to: education, training, and public outreach – such as speaking tours, interfaith conferences, participation in multilateral fora, symposia (e.g., to bring together citizens, faith leaders, and government officials), publications, third-country exchanges, awareness campaigns (e.g. billboards, grassroots social marketing, public service announcements), and legal training for defense of religious freedom; legal support for constitutional and other reforms; development of an interfaith network of youth to encourage respect for religious diversity; and creation of an interfaith early alert/community organization that would help prevent attacks on religious minorities and their places (e.g., an anonymous tip line).

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=98473

Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit no more than three (3) proposals.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Country(ies) targeted
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

State, U. S. Department of - National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y)

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for one cooperative agreement for the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y), which provides overseas foreign language instruction for American high school students and those recently graduated. Public and private non-profit organizations may submit proposals to cooperate with ECA in the overall administration of NSLI-Y organizational responsibilities and the implementation of overseas language programs of two different durations for approximately 610 total individual participant scholarships according to the duration and language distribution detailed in the Project Objectives, Goals and Implementation (POGI). NSLI-Y programs funded by this award will take place between June 2012 and June 2013. NSLI-Y is an important component of a multi-agency USG initiative to increase American citizens' ability to engage with people throughout the world who speak Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Indic (Hindi), Korean, Persian (Tajiki or Farsi), Russian and Turkish. Please note: ECA reserves the right to add or subtract languages and countries based on the needs of the Department, security considerations at the time of implementation and the overall objectives of the program. The Bureau anticipates that the single award recipient will manage the comprehensive organizational and administrative responsibilities of this program as well as the identification of qualified sub-award recipients known as "implementing organizations" to implement the overseas language programs. Under this award, the award recipient may also serve as an implementing organization.

Further information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Applicants may submit only one proposal under this competition. If multiple proposals are received from the same applicant, all submissions will be declared ineligible and receive no further consideration in the review process.

Names and departments of UK Project Director, key personnel, and the target country(ies)

Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Federal deadline for the Statements of Interest is March 24, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U. S. Department of - Ngwang Choephel Fellows Program

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs invites proposal submissions for the Ngwang Choephel Fellows Program. Focusing on the theme of Economic Empowerment, the FY 2013 Ngwang Choephel Fellows Program offers Tibetans living in the Tibetan Autonomous Region or Tibetan areas of China opportunities to increase their professional business and managerial skills, generate new business ventures, and provide increased employment opportunities within their communities. Proposed projects must be two-way exchanges involving both U.S. and foreign participants and should take place over a two-year period.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=210273

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is January 11, 2013.

State, U. S. Department of - North Korea Programs

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) solicits proposals for projects that promote human rights and the rule of law; civil society; and media freedom and freedom of information in North Korea:

1. Human Rights and Rule of Law (approximately $750,000 available):

DRL seeks proposals for projects to improve the internal North Korean human rights situation, including those that address rule of law and women's rights. Applicants should demonstrate a clear linkage between proposed activities and their intended impact inside the country.

2. Civil Society (approximately $750,000 available):

DRL seeks proposals for projects to build the capacity of both South Korean- and defector- led organizations to collaborate and to more effectively advocate for change in North Korea.

3. Media Freedom and Freedom of Information (approximately $1,000,000 available):

DRL seeks proposals for projects that increase the flow of information in, within, and out of North Korea, including through exchanges and training programs in the East Asia Pacific region.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/127837.htm.

Because the Department of State limits an institution to one application, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, August 31, 2009:

a)   Names and departments of PI and key personnel
b)   Project narrative (maximum 4 pages) including a statement of work or synopsis of the program and its expected results, the project’s objectives and activities, the total amount of funding requested and program length, and a brief statement on how the project is innovative, sustainable, and will have a demonstrated impact.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - One-time Competitive Grants Program

The Department of State has allocated a total of $8 million for two Congressionally-mandated competitions: A) One-time Grants Program for Academic Programs and B) Professional, Cultural, and Youth One-time Grants Program. Each of these two competitions has multiple programs, each with specific guidelines and funding levels.

Applicants may submit only ONE proposal (TOTAL) to ONE of the two competitions referenced above. In addition, applicants under either competition (A or B) may apply to administer only one of the listed activities (total).

A. Academic Programs:

1. Intensive English Language Program
2. Capacity Building for Undergraduate Study Abroad

For more information on Competition A see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

B. Professional, Cultural, and Youth One-time Grants Program

1. Emerging Youth Leaders: for high school students (ages 15-17) and educators
- Democracy and Governance in Civil Society

2. Emerging Young Professionals: for young adults (ages 22-35)
      - Environmental issues
      - Post-conflict governing
      - Development of Grassroots Organizations for Women
      - Good government/Rule of Law
      - Community-based Volunteerism

3. Emerging Cultural Leaders
      - "Rooted in the Arts" program for U.S. performing artists (ages 25-35) and teachers

For more information on Competition B see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of competition (A or B) and specific program
Description of proposed project and justification or rationale for why proposed project should be selected as UK's candidate - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is April 12, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Open Competition for Professional Exchange Programs

The Office of Citizen Exchanges (ECA/PE/C), Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), announces an open competition for grants to conduct the 2011 professional exchange programs. This opportunity is designed to bring young foreign professionals to the United States for four week to six week-long fellowships in organizations related to their field of work, followed by American counterparts who will travel overseas for reciprocal fellowships. Projects should take place over the course of one to two years, and engage up-and-coming and mid-level government or civil society professionals who will effect positive change in their institutions and communities through the following initiatives: the Legislative Fellows Program, the Women’s Empowerment Program, and the Young Entrepreneurs Program.

Sub-Saharan Africa (AF): Angola, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe
East Asia and Pacific (EAP): Cambodia, Indonesia, Mongolia, Taiwan
Europe (EUR): Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine
Europe (EUR): Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia
Near East/North Africa (NEA): Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian Territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen
South and Central Asia (SCA): Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan
Western Hemisphere (WHA): Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica; Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Venezuela

Women’s Empowerment
The Women’s Empowerment Program will focus on the unique interests of women in issues that affect the broader society, including business, civil society, and journalism. Participants will represent women-owned businesses, non-governmental organizations, healthcare industries, and educational institutions. During their 4-6 week fellowships in the United States, participants will gain firsthand knowledge of how organizations and institutions advocate on behalf of women and their critical role in community advancement, while also participating in site visits and specially-designed seminars.

Sub-Saharan Africa (AF): Angola, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Zimbabwe - Proposals submitted under this section of the Women’s Empowerment Program should include at least two (2) of the countries listed above and specifically emphasize women’s entrepreneurship and employment skills development for participation in the workforce.
Sub-Saharan Africa (AF): Angola, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Zimbabwe - Proposals submitted under this section of the Women’s Empowerment Program should include at least two (2) of the countries listed above and specifically emphasize building partnerships between U.S. and international women and organizations devoted to health issues such as HIV/AIDS, nutrition, maternal health, disease prevention, gender-based violence or other relevant health issues.
East Asia and Pacific (EAP): Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam - Proposals submitted under this section of the Women’s Empowerment Program should be regional in scope, including all four (4) of the Lower Mekong countries listed above and should endeavor to empower women to increase local capacity and connectivity. Specifically, proposals should emphasize strengthening local community infrastructure and capacity, especially in the area of technology, such as improving women’s access to reliable mobile technology and services. Participants should be placed at non-governmental organizations, advocacy groups, relevant government offices, small businesses or other related organizations and focus on advancing gender equality by bringing together women and technology.
East Asia and Pacific (EAP): Fiji, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Timor-Leste, Tonga - Proposals submitted under this section of the Women’s Empowerment Program should include at least four (4) of the countries listed above, and should focus on the development of civil society groups that focus on women.
East Asia and Pacific (EAP): Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam - Proposals submitted under this section of the Women’s Empowerment Program should include at least four (4) of the countries listed above, with a specific emphasis on women’s entrepreneurship.
South and Central Asia (SCA): Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka (including the Maldives) - Proposals submitted under this section of the Women’s Empowerment Program include at least four (4) of the countries listed above. For proposals that include Afghanistan, security conditions will dictate whether it will be possible to conduct programming for American participants in Afghanistan, and this should be addressed specifically.
Western Hemisphere (WHA): Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, El Salvador, Mexico, Haiti, Honduras, Guatemala, Barbados (and the Eastern Caribbean), Costa Rica - Proposals submitted under this section of the Women’s Empowerment Program should support professionals who are actively involved in enhancing the role of civil society in the following sectors: Economic Development, Environmental Sustainability and Health. Projects should directly engage African descendant and indigenous communities.

Young Entrepreneurs
The Young Entrepreneurs Program will engage small business owners, business professionals and business educators, to observe best practices in business, engage in dialogue with their peers in the U.S., and complete individually tailored fellowships in appropriate organizations. Participants will increase their understanding of the links between entrepreneurial activity and free markets, as well as the importance of transparency and accountability in business and government through the participants‟ direct involvement in American businesses.

East Asia and Pacific (EAP): Ngwang Choephel Fellows Program - Tibetan Autonomous Region or Tibetan areas of China.
Near East/North Africa (NEA): Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Libya, Morocco, Palestinian Territories, Syria.
South and Central Asia (SCA): Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Tajikista
Western Hemisphere (WHA): Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, El Salvador, Mexico, Haiti, Honduras, Guatemala, Ecuador

Further information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Program selected, targeted area and countries selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 12, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Open Competition for Professional Fellows Program

The Professional Fellows Division in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ Office of Citizen Exchanges announces an open competition for grants to conduct the Professional Fellows Program (PFP) in Africa, East Asia, Europe, the Near East and North Africa, South Central Asia, and the Western Hemisphere.

The PFP is a global exchange program designed to strengthen leadership capacity and professional skills for mid-level professionals (approximately 25-40 years of age). The PFP provides mid-level professionals opportunities to participate in substantive professional development activities in the United States working closely with U.S. counterparts in exchanges which focus on one of the following three themes: 1) Economic Empowerment; 2) Media; and 3) Legislative Process and Governance. Each exchange must involve both U.S. and foreign participants in roughly equivalent numbers and should take place over a two-year period. The sponsor anticipates awards will be in the $350,000 to $500,000 range. Organizations with less than four years experience in conducting international exchanges are ineligible to apply under this competition. The anticipated award date for the project is July 1, 2012, and the anticipated project completion date is June 30, 2014. The Bureau encourages applicants to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding in support of its programs.

Further information can be found at:
http://exchanges.state.gov/media/pdfs/rfgps/3rfgp-professional-fellows-open-competition-1-31-12-final.pdf

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Theme of the project – Economic Empowerment, Media, or Legislative Process and Governance
The specific country(ies) from one of the 6 target regions for the project (listed in opening paragraph above)
The program activities and objectives (1 -2 pages)
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is March 27, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Pan-Africa Youth Leadership Program

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) calls for proposals to provide secondary school students and adult educators the opportunity to explore the primary themes of civic rights and responsibilities, leadership development, respect for diversity, and community engagement through three-week French and English language exchanges in the United States. Support for individual or small group follow-on projects in the home communities of the exchange alumni will complete the program. A total of 110-130 participants will travel to the United States in up to six separate, mixed-country delegations from sub-regions of Sub- Saharan Africa in calendar year 2014. ECA funding will support the planning and implementation of U.S.-based programming, including homestays with American families, and participant international travel. Participating U.S. Embassies will recruit, screen, and select the participants and support program alumni, in coordination with the award recipients. Pending the availability of funds, it is the Bureau’s intent to award two to three cooperative agreements, each for one base year plus two option years for an estimated total amount of $3,600,000.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit only one (1) proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://eca.state.gov/files/bureau/fy13_pan_africa_rfgp_final.pdf

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is May 22, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of - Professional Exchanges Congress

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs invites proposal submissions to conduct the 2012 spring and fall End-of-Program “Professional Exchanges Congresses” for individuals from Africa, East Asia and the Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, South and Central Asia and the Western Hemisphere participating in the Legislative Fellows Program, the Women’s Empowerment Program, and the Young Entrepreneurs Program.

Legislative Fellows Program
The Legislative Fellows Program will engage professionals who are actively involved in the legislative process and/or policy-making through their work in government, civic education organizations, citizen advocacy groups, political parties, or election monitoring organizations. During their time in the United States, the participants will examine the relationship between civil society and government, and the issue of public corruption and accountability. Participants will observe the role of their U.S. counterparts in various levels of the U.S. government, through placements in Congressional offices (including state/district offices), state legislatures, city councils/local government bodies, advocacy groups or other relevant organizations across the United States, engage in dialogue, and develop plans for projects that support more responsive social and political institutions.

Women’s Empowerment
The Women’s Empowerment Program will focus on the unique interests of women in issues that affect the broader society, including business, civil society, and journalism. Participants will represent women-owned businesses, non-governmental organizations, healthcare industries, and educational institutions. During their 4-6 week fellowships in the United States, participants will gain firsthand knowledge of how organizations and institutions advocate on behalf of women and their critical role in community advancement, while also participating in site visits and specially-designed seminars.

Young Entrepreneurs
The Young Entrepreneurs Program will engage small business owners, business professionals and business educators, to observe best practices in business, engage in dialogue with their peers in the U.S., and complete individually tailored fellowships in appropriate organizations. Participants will increase their understanding of the links between entrepreneurial activity and free markets, as well as the importance of transparency and accountability in business and government through the participants‟ direct involvement in American businesses.

Further information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 19, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Professional Exchange Programs in Selected International Countries

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for grants that support exchanges and build relationships between U.S. non-profit organizations and civil society and cultural groups in Africa, East Asia, Europe, the Near East, North Africa, South Central Asia and the Western Hemisphere. Pending availability of funds, it is anticipated that approximately $5,600,000 or more will be available to support this competition. Sponsor expects to fund approximately 10-15 projects under the Professional Exchange Program competition in FY 2009. Successful projects should promote mutual understanding and partnerships between key professional and cultural groups in the United States and counterpart groups in other countries through multi-phased exchanges taking place over one to two years. Proposals should encourage citizen engagement in current issues and promote the development of democratic societies and institutions, with a view toward creating a more stable world. All programs should be two-way exchanges and involve participants from the U.S. and foreign countries.

This opportunity from the Department of State consists of four themes:

1. The Legislative Fellows Program (LFP) - Priorities focus on engagement with young professionals in positions to influence and develop their societies, including young professionals involved in the local and national legislatures of developing democracies. The LFP program is designed to strengthen understanding of the U.S. legislative process and enhance appreciation of the role of civic society and its engagement in the political process. LFP will provide young professionals from identified countries with hands-on exposure to the U.S. political process through internships in U.S. Congressional offices (including state/district offices), state legislatures, city councils or local governments across the U.S. The program will also involve U.S. participants who will be selected from staff members at the various internship sites who will act as primary host/mentors to the foreign fellows during their U.S.-based program. After the internships are completed, these U.S. staff members will travel overseas to the interns' home countries to continue their engagement by participating in joint outreach activities, engaging the local media, and on-site consultancies and presentations to wider audiences.

2. Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP) - Support and development of business entrepreneurs in emerging free market societies remains a top priority for the State Department worldwide. Sponsor seeks proposals to implement the Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP) program to promote entrepreneurial thinking, job creation, business planning, and management skills that will assist young emerging entrepreneurs worldwide (approximately 25-35 years old) in launching business careers. The YEP program will increase understanding of the links between entrepreneurial activity and free markets as well as the importance of transparency and accountability in business and government. The YEP program will introduce young men and women to entrepreneurial thinking, business management skills, attracting investment, and also in designing programs to teach others these skills. The program will enhance appreciation for American business practices and the role of the individual in creating growth through grassroots-focused entrepreneurial efforts.

3. Outreach and Integration of Minority Communities - Sponsor seeks proposals for programs that will engage community leaders, educators, youth influencers, journalists, and community-based organizations in examination of programs and practices to facilitate integration and empowerment of minority populations, particularly youth, in selected countries. The program would look at issues related to the integration of immigrant and minority populations into a modern democratic society. This includes integration in the political system, economic opportunity, freedom of expression, access to education, and practice of an open social/cultural life, while maintaining ethnic identity within a multi-ethnic society. A specific concentration of programming on immigrant and minority youth populations and the special needs/challenges they face in modern society should be a major focus. An overall comparison and sharing of best practices in the U.S. and in foreign countries on these issues should also be included. Programming should include an overview of U.S. and foreign government and legal structures, an understanding of the diversity of American and foreign societies and efforts to increase tolerance and respect for others with differing views and beliefs. Program content should include an overview of the range of historical and current American and foreign experiences with integrating various immigrant and minority citizens, examination of what has worked well and what has not, and analysis of the range of actors including government, NGOs, religious organizations, immigrant organizations, educational institutions, and the role of the media and public who report on these issues. Participants (from the U.S. and foreign countries) in the program should include representatives of non-governmental organizations, community leaders, educators, youth influencers, religious leaders, and journalists from minority communities.

4. Nqwang Choephel Fellowship Program for Tibet - Sponsor welcomes proposals that focus on the themes of cultural preservation and economic self-sufficiency and proposals that train and assist Tibetans living in Tibetan communities in China by providing professional experience and exposure to American society and culture through internships, workshops and other learning activities hosted by U.S. institutions. The experiences will also provide Americans the opportunity to learn about Tibetan culture and the social and economic challenges that Tibetans face today.

For details and specific requirements for each theme and country, see the complete announcement: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/E8-28737.htm.

Most recent internal deadline: January 12, 2009.

Most recent external deadline: February 20, 2009.

State, U.S. Department of – Professional Fellows Program

The Professional Fellows Division in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ Office of Citizen Exchanges announces an open grant competition to conduct the Professional Fellows Program (PFP) in the regions of Africa (AF), East Asia and Pacific (EAP), Europe and Eurasia (EUR), the Near East (NEA), South and Central Asia (SCA) and the Western Hemisphere (WHA). Proposals must involve more than one country and address one of the following three themes: 1) Legislative Process and Governance, 2) Economic Empowerment, and 3) Rule of Law. The Professional Fellows Program is a two-way, global exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance leadership skills, and build lasting and sustainable partnerships between mid-level emerging leaders from foreign countries and the United States.

Limited Submission: Applicants may not submit more than one proposal in this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=218037

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 25, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Programs for Chad

The Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) requests proposals for projects that promote democracy and human rights in Chad.

DRL is interested in projects targeting one of the following issues in Chad (approximately $1,000,000 available):

1).Raising awareness to prevent the recruitment of child soldiers in government and/or rebel groups - Projects related to child soldiers should focus on preventing recruitment of children from refugee and/or IDP camps in the east; however, proposals may also include efforts in other parts of the country as appropriate. Awareness raising strategies should be clearly described and aimed specifically at key actors who may be able to prevent or stop the recruitment and use of child soldiers. Such actors may include, but are not limited to, field-level members of the military, local refugee leaders, parents/parent-teacher associations, gendarmes and law enforcement officials, local and provincial civilian authorities, and civil society/religious groups. As such, projects should demonstrate a strong understanding of the ways in which children are recruited. To promote collaboration and avoid duplication of efforts, projects should also demonstrate the ability to coordinate closely with UNICEF, UNHCR, and other actors engaged in similar efforts. Awareness raising activities must demonstrate that they do not duplicate UNICEF efforts. Applicants interested in applying for a grant in this area must currently be operating in Chad.

2). Reducing school violence - Projects must pay particular attention to the inclusion of girls, demonstrate knowledge of other related ongoing projects, and explain how the proposal does not duplicate existing efforts. Projects should involve training for and the involvement of actors such as teachers, school administrators and local authorities, students (male and female), and parents/parent-teacher associations. They should seek to strengthen existing mechanisms that work with or within schools or to build associations that will continue to promote safer schools over the long-term.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/125224.htm.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one application, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, July 6, 2009:

Names and departments of the PI and other project personnel
Project overview (3 pages) – briefly describe project objectives, proposed activities, innovative aspects of the proposed program, elements of sustainability that will have a lasting impact and applicant’s related experience.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, US Dept. of - Programs for North Korea

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals (RFP) from organizations focused on fostering media freedom, civil society, rule of law, and labor and human rights for North Koreans. Examples of Program goals include, but are not limited to:

Promoting media freedom and the free flow of information into, out of, and within the DPRK;
Strengthening the capacity of organizations that work to promote human rights in North Korea, in particular groups seeking to increase civil society attention and action on North Korea’s human rights situation in non-Western countries;
Amplifying efforts to document abuses within, and focus attention and action on North Korea’s political prison camp system;
Addressing disability rights, women’s issues, and children’s rights;
Strengthening the capacity of organizations documenting human rights abuses in the DPRK;
Implementing recommendations from the DPRK’s Universal Periodic Review.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than 2 (two) proposals.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=231533

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is May 31, 2013.

State, US Dept. of - Program for Research and Training on Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet Union (Title VIII)

The U.S. State Department, Bureau of Intelligence and Research, Office of Outreach, invites organizations with substantial and wide-reaching experience in administering research and training programs to conduct nationwide competitive programs supporting U.S. scholars, students and institutions in advanced research and language training on the countries of Eastern Europe and Eurasia. U.S.-based public and private nonprofit organizations and educational institutions may submit proposals for Title VIII-funded programs that 1) support and sustain American expertise on the countries of Eastern Europe and Eurasia, 2) bring American expertise to the service of the U.S. Government, and 3) further U.S. foreign assistance and policy goals. All proposals must make an explicit connection to U.S. foreign or national security policy, and demonstrate how the proposed program will contribute to U.S. knowledge and expertise and national capability. The program also works to support outreach and build relationships with the academic and nonprofit communities. Intelligence Community analysts and State Department policy makers benefit from engagement with outside elements to explore new ideas and perspectives and create new knowledge and research.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit only one (1) proposal for this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=214414

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is February 28, 2013.

State, US Dept. of - Programs to Support the Judiciary and Rule of Law

The Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) announces an open competition for assistance awards with the EUR region. Organizations may submit grant proposals for a program to facilitate the implementation of rule of law assistance programs. The activities under this award shall take place in: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Serbia and Tajikistan. Maximum award amounts are $300,000 for Armenia; $200,000 for Azerbaijan; $850,000 for Russia; $400,000 for Serbia; and $3,600,000 for Tajikistan. INL is seeking proposals with an implementation period of one to three years, with one-year projects being renewable up to four years, contingent upon availability of funds, recipient’s performance, and INL’s priorities. Cost sharing is strongly encouraged but not required. Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=142033 Organizations may submit only one (1) proposal for each country’s program (from among the five countries listed above).

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one proposal for each country’s program, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Wednesday, February 29, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Country in which the activities will take place - specify Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Serbia or Tajikistan
Project overview (1-2 pages) – brief project description describing activities and objectives
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is March 9 (for Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, and Serbia) and March 15, 2012 (for Tajikistan only). Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, US Dept. of - Programs to Support Legal Socialization Reform in Armenia and Georgia

The Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) announces an open competition for assistance awards in Georgia and Armenia. Organizations may submit grant proposals for programs that encourage legal socialization reform. The announcement is for the solicitation of two awards totaling up to $550,000. Country awards are as follows:

Georgia (up to $300,000) to reduce juvenile delinquency and bring about a fundamental shift within the police, courts
Armenia (and up to $250,000) to support Armenian communities in preventing juvenile delinquency through social justice activities for Armenian youth in coordination with the Armenian Police, and bringing about a fundamental shift of thinking within the police, courts, and community towards restorative justice elements.

Cost Sharing: Cost sharing is strongly encouraged but not required.

Limited Submission: Applicants can submit one proposal for each of the two countries, or one proposal for one country.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=222613

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 18, 2013.

State, US Dept. of - Program to Support the Rural Access to Justice in South Sudan

The United States Government (USG) represented by the Department of State’s Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office for Africa and the Middle East, (INL/AME) directs and oversees foreign assistance programs aimed at criminal justice reform in the Republic of South Sudan. INL/AME provides support for rule of law and justice sector authorities as well as a range of assistance and capacity building for law enforcement and the corrections service in South Sudan. In an effort to complement existing USG and international donor efforts to develop the rule of law in South Sudan, INL/AME seeks applications from qualified organizations for a program aimed at improving citizens’ access to justice by strengthening strategies. Specifically, organizations will be asked to conduct community level assessments at the county level, provide assistance to communities seeking justice, and assistance to justice sector actors delivering services in rural areas. This program will complement ongoing INL programs implemented by the International Development Law Organization, who provide institutional support and training to government justice actors including the Judiciary and the University Of Juba School Of Law. It will further complement ongoing work by INL partners in the areas of policing, and improved management of prisons.

The anticipated award date will be on/before September 8, 2011, at which point the grant period will begin, with a possibility to extend for one year additional year, based on funding availability. It is expected that for the project’s initial year, INL will have available $4,500,000, depending on appropriations and funding availability. Requested funding should be commensurate with the size and capacity of the organization.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=104993
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit only one proposal.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel,,

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is August 8, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, US Dept. of - Program to Support the Transition to the New Criminal Procedures Code and the Criminal Justice System in Peru

The United States Government, represented by the Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office of Western Hemisphere (State/INL/WHP), is seeking applications from qualified organizations with the requisite capability and experience to strengthen criminal prosecutions in Peru by providing a robust training program and technical expertise to justice sector institutions to include: the Judiciary, Ministry of Justice and Human Rights, Public Ministry, Public Solicitors, the Peruvian National Police (PNP), public defenders, law schools and bar associations, and the Magistrates Academy -- thus assisting Peruvian judicial operators, including other technical staff, with implementation of their new criminal procedures code.

Applicants may propose projects for one year. The award ceiling on any single award is $800,000 and the award floor is $100,000, pending funding availability. Based on INL’s program priorities, good performance on the award and funding availability, the award may be extended up to three years. Proposals that request more than the award ceiling will be deemed technically ineligible.

Cost sharing is strongly encouraged but not required.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=137733

An organization may submit only (1) proposal.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Synopsis of the project (1-2 pages) – including objectives and activities
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is February 10, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, US Dept. of - Program to Support the Women’s Justice and Empowerment Initiative in the Democratic Republic of Congo

The United States Government, represented by the Department of State, Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, is seeking applications from qualified U.S. organizations with the requisite capability and experience to support rule of law programming in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Specifically, organizations will be asked to provide assistance, judicial training, and consultation to criminal justice sector professionals and victims of gender-based violence.

The Grant award will be up to $750,000 for the first year, with the option to extend for an additional two years, based on funding availability.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=102693
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

An organization may submit only one proposal.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel,,

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is July 30, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, US Dept. of - Promoting Accountability for Ethno-Religious Violence in Nigeria

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals to increase accountability for perpetrators of violence and support democratic gains made during the 2011 elections by building strong, non-partisan judicial institutions. DRL seeks proposals that build the capacity of a cadre of civil society groups to assist, monitor and report on the efforts of law enforcement and the judiciary to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of ethno-religious violence.

DRL anticipates making awards in the range of $500,000- $750,000.

The Department of State will only accept two (2) proposals per organization under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=179135

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is July 22, 2012.

State, US Dept. of - Promoting Freedom of Expression and the Free Flow of Information through Technology and Access

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals (RFP) from organizations that are interested in submitting proposals to support technologies that maximize free expression and the free flow of information and increase access to the Internet.

Proposals should clearly address one or more of the following areas:

Mobile technology: DRL seeks proposals that support innovative technologies designed to operationally defeat or circumvent censorship and/or surveillance of all forms of content related to independent news, democracy, and human rights that is created, shared or stored on mobile devices in repressive environments.

Mobile technology/education and outreach: DRL seeks proposals that support training and networking of potential users of mobile circumvention technology that would support the promotion of democracy and human rights in repressive environments.

Protecting privacy in the documentation of human rights crises: DRL seeks proposals that support the development of technology and best practices to protect users from surveillance in documenting human rights and other abuses as they occur or in the promotion of independent news and information through the use of mobile technology or other new media tools.

Promoting organizational information security: DRL seeks proposals that promote the implementation of effective information security policies and practices amongst individual activists and civil society organizations promoting democracy and human rights.

Increasing access to the Internet: DRL seeks proposals that support increased access to the Internet in repressive environments.

Geographic reach: Regional or multi-country proposals are encouraged.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/127837.htm

Because the Department of State only allows organizations to submit two proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Wednesday, January 6, 2010:

A brief description of the project (4 pages maximum) including the following information:

name and department of the principal investigator
target country(ies),
the program objectives,
the program activities.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, US Dept. of - Promoting Human Rights and Rule of Law in Egypt

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) seeks proposals to support Egyptian civil society efforts to combat impunity for human rights violations and increase transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system.

Activities may include, but are not limited to:

Building the capacity of Egyptian civil society organizations to document human rights violations;
Coordinating the documentation efforts of Egyptian civil society organizations, possibly establishing a central repository for case information;
Advocacy for legal and regulatory reforms to bolster protection for human rights, including improving remedies for violations and increasing transparency in the criminal justice process;
Training for NGOs to track cases in the criminal justice system to ensure the right to due process is respected;
Legal assistance for victims of human rights violations.

Cost Sharing: Cost sharing is strongly encouraged. Programs that leverage resources from funds internal to the organization or other sources, such as public-private partnerships, will be highly considered.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=228133

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is April 14, 2013.

State, US Dept. of - Promoting Religious Freedom and the Protection of the Rights of Religious Minorities in Egypt

DRL seeks proposals for programs that promote religious freedom; advance the respect for, and protection of, the rights of religious minorities; and promote inclusive public attitudes. Proposed activities may include, but are not limited to:

Addressing impunity for attacks and other human rights violations against religious minorities, which may include legal assistance to victims, advocacy for the enforcement of existing human rights protections, building local capacity to document abuses, and building capacity to advocate for rule of law to ensure the rights of victims are protected.
Advocacy for reform of discriminatory laws and policies, and development of improved legislative protections for religious freedom.
Public education campaigns to promote tolerance, inclusiveness, and/or awareness of Egypt’s religious minority communities and their contribution to Egyptian society.
Projects that promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation in communities at risk for sectarian violence.

Organizations must demonstrate deep familiarity with the Egyptian context and an understanding of the sensitivities surrounding issues of religious freedom. Partnership with Egyptian organizations is strongly encouraged. Organizations may apply as a consortium. Proven ability to implement activities in Egypt and expertise in issues of religious freedom will be viewed positively.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=227695

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is April 14, 2013.

State, US Dept. of - Rapid Response Fund for Religious Freedom

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for effective and immediate approaches to 1) disburse small, short-term emergency financial support to religious freedom victims facing long-term detention or death sentence for their religious beliefs (or lack thereof) or expression of beliefs; and 2) fund short-term innovative initiatives that defend and/or support religious freedom and tolerance, including activities that support education, training, and public outreach such as at multilateral fora.

Further information can be found at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/c12302.htm

An organization may submit no more than one (1) proposal.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Country(ies) selected
Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 4, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, US Dept. of - Request for Proposals: Democracy, Human Rights and Rule of Law for countries in Africa, East Asia Pacific, Europe, and South and Central Asia

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the following regions and countries: Africa (Gambia and Mali), East Asia Pacific (Cambodia), Europe (Turkey and Azerbaijan), and South and Central Asia (Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Central Asia Regional).

Africa:
Gambia (approximately $500,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to bolster media reform and freedom including capacity building support of journalist associations and unions and outreach and training programs on journalistic freedoms.

Mali (approximately $750,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that address issues of forced labor, particularly slavery, including projects that strengthen the legal framework and provide legal assistance to victims.

East Asia Pacific:
Cambodia (approximately $500,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that aim to increase civic participation and/or political participation of Cham Muslims at the local or national level; and empower Cham Muslim women. Proposals should address one or both objectives described above.

Europe:
Turkey (approximately $540,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that aim to reduce the prevalence of violence against women, honor killings, and incest, particularly in rural areas of the country, including community-based efforts to raise awareness of women’s rights, support social services to victims, and work with local stakeholders (municipal governments, NGO activists, etc.).

Turkey (approximately $600,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to promote freedom of expression and the media, including projects that address Internet freedom issues or that work with judges and prosecutors to address issues related to freedom of speech and expression.

Azerbaijan (approximately $798,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that help strengthen the independent media; increase participation in the political process or civil society; or promote the compatibility between Democracy & Islam. Proposals should include a focus on youth.

South and Central Asia:
Afghanistan (approximately $600,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that bolster human rights institutions and organizations in Afghanistan, either within the government or in civil society, that focus on women’s issues or transitional justice.

Uzbekistan (approximately $600,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to develop student legal clinics at universities around the country, to raise students’ awareness of international law and human rights standards, to teach critical thinking skills, and to provide practical experience representing clients. Programs should be implemented in-country.

Central Asia Regional (approximately $800,000 available): DRL seeks innovative proposals that will support independent media in Central Asia, potentially to include media monitoring, legal defense, and/or training.

For more information on this competition see: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/127829.htm

An organization may submit no more than four proposals.

Because the Department of State limits eligible applicants to a total of only four proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to send the following information electronically to the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, April 19, 2010:

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project (include region and issue chosen)
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as one of UK's candidates - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is May 4, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of - Request for Statements of Interest China

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Statements of Interest (SOI) from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that support the bureau’s policy priorities for fostering democracy and human rights in China. This solicitation does not constitute a formal Request for Proposals: DRL will invite select organizations that submit SOIs to expand their ideas in full proposals at a later date.

DRL invites organizations to submit statements of interest outlining program concepts and organizational capacity to manage projects that will advance DRL policy priorities in the following areas:

Rule of Law: Legal reform; implementation of existing laws; public interest law; capacity development for legal actors and development of the legal profession; criminal defense; access to legal services for the underserved and vulnerable populations, measures to help China implement the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Civil Society: Developmental and capacity building for non-governmental entities; reform or establishment of underlying systems and institutions in the nonprofit sector; cross-sector collaboration
Labor: Labor rights and working conditions; collective bargaining; workplace representation; mediation; migrant worker interests
Religious Freedom: Religious pluralism and social harmony, particularly in minority areas, support for the capacity of religious groups to provide social services.
Freedom of Information and Expression: Transparency and open government information, press freedom, media reform, and journalism
Public participation: Processes and methodologies to improve the quality and scope of citizen input into government decision-making

Where applicable, projects should demonstrate the capacity to include persons with disabilities in programming.

Further information can be found at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/c12302.htm

An organization may submit no more than two (2) SOIs of two pages each.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit two SOIs, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Tuesday, August 9, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel,

Statement of Interest (1-2 pages) including: a brief description of the organization, description of how the project supports DOS’s priorities, project description (including duration and objectives), statement of methodology, and an estimated budget figure.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is September 7, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of - Request for Statements of Interest: Democracy, Human Rights and Rule of Law for Papua New Guinea

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Statements of Interest (SOI) from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that support democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Papua New Guinea. This solicitation does not constitute a formal Request for Proposals. DRL will invite select organizations that submit SOIs to expand on their ideas via a full proposal at a later date.

DRL invites organizations to submit statements of interest outlining program concepts and capacity to manage programs that seek to strengthen citizen’s access to justice in order to combat violence, including violence against women, human rights abuses, and corruption associated with the extractive industries in Papua New Guinea (PNG). If possible, programs should address these issues in the context of PNG’s complex interethnic property ownership and land tenure issues. Program activities may include, but are not limited to, activities to raise awareness about relevant rights and laws; provide access to legal services; build the capacity of organizations supporting or advocating for legal rights; work with relevant local and national law enforcement agencies to raise their awareness; and/or educate the community on human rights concerns within the extractive industry. Successful programs will coordinate with other donor efforts in this area.

Further information can be found at: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/157017.htm

An organization may submit no more than two Statements of Interest of three pages each. SOIs that do not meet the requirements of the announcement may not be considered.

Because the Department of State only allows applicants to submit two Statements of Interest, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, March 7, 2011:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel,
Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is March 23, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of - Requests for Proposals for Selected Regions and Countries

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the following regions and countries: Africa (AF Regional; AF Regional- DRC and Rwanda; AF Regional-DRC and CAR; Eritrea, Sudan, and Nigeria), East Asia Pacific (Regional- Pacific Island Countries; Burma; Cambodia; and Laos), Europe (EUR Regional; EUR Regional-Central, Eastern, and or Southeastern Europe; Belarus; Turkey; Azerbaijan; and Ukraine), the Near East (Egypt and Tunisia), South and Central Asia (Sri Lanka and Central Asia Regional) and the Western Hemisphere (Regional; Venezuela; and Mexico).

For detailed descriptions of which topics are targeted for each country and region, please see: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/130236.htm

An organization may submit no more than six (6) proposals.

Because the Department of State limits eligible applicants to a total of only six proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to send the following information electronically to the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Friday, July 9, 2010:

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities); which topic, region and country is selected; and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as one of UK's candidates - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is August 4, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of - Request for Proposals: To Expand Cuban Civic Participation and Leadership in Social Relationships and Independent Civil Society Groups

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that respond to the needs and interests of Cubans on the island and empower citizens on the island to meaningfully engage in key civic social activities and decisions that improve their lives.

Political Prisoners (approximately $500,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that will provide humanitarian assistance to family members of Cuban political prisoners. DRL strongly encourages local procurement of food and/or non-food items when available. Humanitarian assistance may be provided in the form of cash or in-kind assistance. Successful proposals will outline the process through which recipients of humanitarian assistance will be selected.

Freedom of Expression (approximately $1,500,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to support greater freedom of expression on the island, especially among performing artists, visual artists, musicians, poets, writers, journalists, and bloggers. Objectives are to increase civic space for expressing opinions openly and sharing ideas, generate increased demand not only for information, per se, but for freedom of expression overall.

Freedom of Religion (approximately $500,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that would support initiatives put forward by on-island religious and spiritual groups to advocate for religious freedom.

Labor Rights/Freedom of Association (approximately $500,000 available): DRL seeks proposals that would support initiatives put forth by Cuban partners such as independent labor unions and/or labor organizations on the island who wish to advocate for workers’ rights and/or the freedom of association.

Women’s Issues (approximately $350,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to strengthen the capacity of on-island independent Cuban civil society groups to advocate for the rights of women. Specifically, funds will support on-island efforts to combat the commercial sexual exploitation of women and girls in order to minimize the likelihood that they would participate in commercialized sex for economic reasons, including by raising awareness, education women on their rights, and strengthening women’s ability to advocate for and network among themselves, as well as provide immediate support for victims of sexual exploitation.

Direct Civil Society Support (approximately $300,000 available): DRL seeks proposals to assist groups and individuals on the island, via providing funding to Cubans who request small grants for independent civil society initiatives that are Cuban-conceived and Cuban-led. Projects that emphasize outreach to sectors of civil society who have not previously received support, particularly in regions outside of Havana, will be considered particularly competitive.

For more information see: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/127829.htm

An organization may submit no more than two (2) proposals.

Because the Department of State limits eligible applicants to a total of only two proposals, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to send the following information electronically to the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, July 8, 2010:

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities); which topic is selected; and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as one of UK's candidates - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is July 26, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Dept. of - Secretary's War Widows Program

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor and the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues announce a Request for Proposals from organizations interested in submitting proposals to address the need for sustainable job creation and expanded access to economic opportunity for widows in Iraq, particularly marginalized widows living in poverty. DOS is deeply committed to ensuring women are able to participate as equal partners in accessing and unleashing economic opportunity through its programs and diplomatic engagement, recognizing women’s unique role in promoting peace, stability, and self-reliance.

Proposals that combine target countries and/or themes may be deemed technically ineligible. Proposals that request less than the award floor ($500,000) or more than the award ceiling ($1,000,000) will be deemed technically ineligible.

Further information can be found at:
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=160293

An organization may submit no more than three (3) proposals under this competition.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit three applications, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, April 19, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
A short description (1-2 pages) of the program’s goals, objectives, activities, outcomes, and outputs

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 2, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - smART Power: Visual Arts

The Cultural Programs Division in the Office of Citizen Exchanges in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for one award to administer the “smART Power: Visual Arts” program. Under the “smART Power: Visual Arts” program, the Bureau seeks an organization capable of soliciting, selecting, and facilitating approximately ten (10) to thirty (30) collaborative visual arts projects, whereby U.S. visual artists will travel abroad to engage with foreign audiences for periods of approximately six to twelve weeks each.

The overall objective of the “smART Power: Visual Arts” program is to support the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ mission to increase mutual understanding between the peoples of the United States and other countries, emphasizing shared social and cultural values. The program will showcase the role of visual artists as vibrant, engaged, and innovative partners in addressing the broader social issues important to communities worldwide. International audiences will have an opportunity to engage with American artists and learn about our country’s cultural history as well as the contemporary cultural scene. The American artists will themselves learn about the societies and cultures of the foreign host countries.

Applicants may submit only ONE proposal to administer the listed activities/programs.

For more information on this competition see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Specify program - US Dept. of State - smART Power: Visual Arts
Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project (include themes and countries chosen)
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's applicant - maximum 2 pages

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s applicant. The Department of State deadline is May 26, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - SportsUnited: International Sports Programming Initiative (ISPI)

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for proposals for projects designed to reach out to youth and promote mutual understanding by increasing the professional capacity of those who design and manage youth sports programs in select countries in Africa, East Asia and the Pacific, the Near East and North Africa, South and Central Asia, Europe and Eurasia, and the Western Hemisphere. The focus of all programs must be on reaching out to both male and female youth ages 7-17 and/or their coaches/administrators. Programs designed to train elite athletes or coaches will not be considered. Eligible countries and territories in each region are: Africa: Benin, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania; East Asia and the Pacific: Cambodia, China (Mainland China), Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam; Near East and North Africa: Bahrain, Egypt, and Oman; South and Central Asia: Bangladesh, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Tajikistan; Europe and Eurasia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey; and the Western Hemisphere: Belize, Colombia, El Salvador, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

Limited Submission: Applicants may not submit more than one (1) proposal for this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=212576

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is February 22, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of - Strengthening Economic Advocacy throughout the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Region

The U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) seeks proposals that advocate for legal and regulatory reforms that support the following priority areas:

Increased, expedited, more efficient, and more transparent business registration processes;
Improved bankruptcy and insolvency laws;
More open government policies and procedures that promote greater transparency and economic growth.

MEPI requests applications that will enhance the role private and non-governmental sectors play in influencing policy decisions and ensuring that laws, policies, regulations, and practices are transparent and responsive to the needs of business and labor. The approach and style of this advocacy can be adapted to the local environment but should include efforts to change specific local and national policies, processes, or structures to enhance or create economic opportunities and broad-based economic growth benefiting all citizens.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit only one (1) application to each priority area listed above

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=218777

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 5, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of - Strengthening Political Leadership & Reducing Economic Barriers for Women in the MENA Region

The U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) is committed to enhancing the ability of women throughout the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) to participate actively in and successfully contribute to political, social and economic developments in their home countries. An application must address one priority area; applications addressing more than one priority will not advance to the Technical Review stage.

Priority Area A: Strengthening Women’s Political Leadership and Effectiveness

Priority Area B: Advocacy for Legislative Reforms to Reduce Economic Constraints for Women

Eligible Countries and Territories: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, West Bank/Gaza, and/or Yemen. The application can propose to work in one or more of the eligible countries.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit only one application to this announcement.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=227839

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is April 22, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of - Study of the United States Institutes for Scholars and Secondary Educators

The Study of the U.S. Branch, Office of Academic Exchange Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), invites proposal submissions for the design and implementation of four different Study of the U.S. Institutes to take place over the course of six weeks beginning in June 2013. These Institutes should provide a multinational group of experienced foreign university educators, scholars, and other professionals with a deeper understanding of U.S. society, culture, values, and institutions. Three of these Institutes will be for groups of 18 foreign university level faculty, focusing on the themes of Journalism and Media, U.S. Culture and Society, and U.S. Foreign Policy. The fourth Institute will be a general survey course on the United States for a group of 30 foreign secondary educators.

Limited Submission: Applicants may propose to host only one Institute listed under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=205313

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is November 26, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Study of the US Institutes for Student Leaders

The Study of the U.S. Branch, Office of Academic Exchange Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, invites proposal submissions for the design and implementation of twelve (12) Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders under five different themes: Civic Engagement, Global Environmental Issues, Religious Pluralism in the United States, Social Entrepreneurship, and Women’s Leadership. Applicants may submit a proposal to implement one or two Institutes. Each Institute will take place over the course of five weeks and should be organized for a group of 20 foreign undergraduate students.

Limited Submission: Applicant organizations may submit no more than one proposal under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=206054

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is December 13, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders on New Media in Journalism

The Branch for the Study of the United States, Office of Academic Exchange Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, invites proposal submissions for the design and implementation of two Study of the United States Institutes for Student Leaders on New Media in Journalism. Each taking place over the course of five weeks, the Institutes will be scheduled in summer 2011.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html
Click on the link Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders on New Media in Journalism.

Applicant organizations (colleges, universities, or NGOs) are invited to submit one application to host one or both Institutes.

Because the Department of State only allows organizations to submit one application to host one or both Institutes, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Friday, December 10, 2010:

Name and department of the principal investigator
Brief description (2 pages) of the project: include program objectives and program activities

The Vice President for Research will appoint a committee to review this material and make a recommendation. The deadline for a full application and supporting material to be submitted electronically through Grants.gov to the Department of State is January 10, 2011.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders on Public Policy and Government Leadership

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is seeking proposal submissions for the design and implementation of four Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders under the theme of Public Policy and Government Leadership. The Institutes should take place at U.S. academic institutions and should provide groups of foreign undergraduate students from the countries listed in the announcement with in-depth sessions on Public Policy. Each six-week Institute should include four weeks of academic residency followed by a two-week integrated educational travel tour to expose participants to a different region of the United States.

One cooperative agreement of up to $1,200,000 will be awarded for this program. Applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding.

Further information can be found at:
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=162213

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
A short description (1-2 pages) of the kinds of public policy sessions in which the students will participate while attending the institute
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 4, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Study of the U.S. Institutes for Women Student Leaders on Women’s Leadership

The Branch for the Study of the United States, Office of Academic Exchange Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, invites proposal submissions from accredited U.S. colleges and universities for the design and implementation of two (2) Study of the United States Institutes for Women Student Leaders on Women’s Leadership. Applicants may submit a proposal to administer one institute. The five week Institutes should take place in June and July, 2012.

The full announcement can be accessed at: https://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html
Click on the link Study of the U.S. Institutes for Women Student Leaders on Women’s Leadership.

Applicant organizations are invited to submit one proposal to host only one Institute. Eligible applicants may not submit more than one proposal in this competition.

Because the Department of State only allows organizations to submit one proposal under this competition, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Wednesday, November 23, 2011:

Names and departments of the program director and participating faculty and staff
Specify the desired country group (Sub-Saharan Africa or North Africa/Middle East and East Asia)
Narrative (3 pages) provide an overview of the program objectives and proposed activities

The Vice President for Research will appoint a committee to review this material and make a recommendation. The complete application and supporting material must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by the December 30, 2011 deadline.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Summer Institutes for European Student Leaders

The Europe/Eurasia Branch of the Office of Academic Exchange Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, invites proposals for the design and implementation of two Summer Institutes for European Student Leaders. The Institutes will be five weeks long, beginning mid-June 2013, for groups of highly motivated undergraduate students or recent high school graduates from selected European countries. Summer Institutes will provide an in-depth study of one of the themes below. In addition to thematic teaching, all institutes should explore American history, government, society, and culture through the lens of its particular theme. All Institutes should include opportunities for leadership development and should also expose participants to community organizations that provide advocacy or other services relevant to the particular theme.

Themes:

The Summer Institute on Environmental Stewardship
The Study of the U.S. Institute for Student Leaders on Social Entrepreneurship

The Bureau intends to award two cooperative agreements (one base year plus two option years) for an estimated total amount of $600,000 per institute, or $200,000 per institute per year.

Limited Submission: Applicants may submit only one proposal to administer either the Summer Institute on Environmental Stewardship or the Summer Institute on Social Entrepreneurship.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=191193

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is October 4, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Supporting Democracy, Human Rights, and Citizen Engagement in Burma

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) seeks proposals to support and foster democracy, human rights, and citizen engagement in Burma for capacity building, technical support, and subgrants to politically-focused civil society organizations in Burma. Universities are eligible to participate but proposed activities cannot be of a research or academic nature. Funding ranges from $300,000 to $800,000 for projects related to civil society advocacy for the removal of restrictive laws; citizen engagement in economic development; promotion of ethnic civil rights and civil society inclusion in peace processes; responding to the rehabilitative needs of released political prisoners and other survivors of conflict-related trauma. Cost sharing is strongly encouraged, and programs that leverage resources from funds internal to the organization or other sources, such as public-private partnerships, will be highly considered. Applicants must indicate prior experience in the country or region.

Limited Submission: An organization may submit no more than two [2] proposals.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=XmpyRPXGhhGCfplgwKq3pZWCXkLWZbb2bhRTjJjfLP91TS3P1G12!-802028924?oppId=218576&mode=VIEW

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 1, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of - Support for Multilateral Initiatives

The U.S. Dept. of State has allocated $325,000 for projects in support of the following three multilateral programs: Association of South East Asian Nations, Organization of the Islamic Conference and Community of Democracies .

Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) - Total funding available - $127,500
Projects should focus on ways to assist local and regional non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations to participate in and influence the development of the emerging ASEAN human rights body. Proposals should clearly address one or more of the following areas:

Provide training for human rights advocates from ASEAN member countries on multilateral human rights mechanisms and interaction with civil society;
Support increased NGO and civil society interface with ASEAN, including by promoting dialogue and communications capability among civil society, political actors, government officials and other stakeholders about the proposed human rights Charter and independent body;
Facilitate consultations with regional organizations, such as the Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Organization of American States (OAS), and the African Union (AU) on their processes for drafting human rights charters and related instruments and developing independent human rights bodies, in order to enhance ASEAN-based NGO knowledge and capabilities to effectively influence and promote the work of the new human rights body;
Promote and facilitate exchanges with NGOs, academic institutions, and think tanks from other regions so that ASEAN-based NGO’s can benefit from their knowledge and expertise in the creation and implementation of regional human rights bodies/charters such as the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, the AU African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, and the OAS Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.

Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) - Total funding available - $127,500

Projects should focus on non-governmental efforts to provide assistance to the OIC to develop a human rights charter and independent body. Proposals should clearly address one or more of the following areas:

Provide technical assistance to the OIC to assist in drafting a proposed human rights charter and developing an independent human rights body, that are consistent with international standards and norms;
Support increased NGO and civil society interface with the OIC, including by promoting dialogue among civil society, religious communities, political actors, government officials and other stakeholders about the proposed human rights charter and independent body;
Facilitate consultations with other regional organizations, such as the Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe or the Organization of American States on their process for drafting human rights charters and related instruments and developing independent human rights bodies in order to enhance best practices and address common challenges in defending and promoting human rights.
Promote dialogue among OIC officials or OIC member state representatives and U.S. scholars, Muslim leaders, NGOs and civil society to explore how Americans understand the intersections between Islam and human rights, and how Muslims in the United States use human rights, including the protection of the freedoms of expression and religion and prohibition on various forms of discrimination, to fight against intolerance and to combat discrimination; and to identify future efforts to work together to promote tolerance through advocacy campaigns.

Community of Democracies (CD) - Total funding available - $70,000
Projects should focus on supporting the travel of NGO activists from Muslim countries outside the Middle East to the 2009 Ministerial in Lisbon.

Facilitate the travel and participation of NGO representatives from Muslim societies outside the Middle East at the 2009 CD Ministerial in Lisbon;
Design and implement creative, hands-on programming to strengthen advocacy networks, both among NGOs in Muslim societies outside the Middle East, and to connect with existing NGO networks in other regions.

For more information see: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/p/115502.htm

Most recent internal deadline: February 13, 2009.

Most recent external deadline: February 25, 2009.

State, U.S. Department of - TechWomen

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for “TechWomen”. This initiative champions two distinct but key themes of President Obama’s June 2009 speech in Cairo by supporting development in the field of technology and enabling women to reach their full potential in the technology industry. Applicants should plan to recruit and select a total of approximately 20-40 women from Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, the West Bank and Gaza to participate in a four- to six-week peer mentoring program in the United States. The mentoring experience will focus on bolstering the status of professional women in the field of technology, will provide networking opportunities for the participants, and will support activities in the participants’ home countries that encourage the interest of girls in technology-based careers.

For more information on this competition see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Specify program - US Dept. of State - TechWomen

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project (include themes and countries chosen)
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's applicant - maximum 2 pages

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s applicant. The Department of State deadline is June 2, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Track II Dialogue on Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula

The Office of Regional Security and Policy in the Department of State’s Bureau of East Asian & Pacific Affairs invites U.S. multilateral, academic, or non-profit/non-governmental organizations to submit proposals for facilitation of an unofficial “Track II” dialogue that would allow for the participation of academic, non-governmental, military, and other government agency representatives from Northeast Asia -- including the United States, Russia, China, the Republic of Korea, Japan, the DPRK, and any other relevant countries -- to meet and discuss regional security and nonproliferation issues that affect them all. Organizations with significant experience in this or similar fora are encouraged to apply. The Department will have $99,000 available for a single grant.

The full announcement can be accessed at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=49905. Click on Full Announcement in the heading.

Because the Department of State allows organizations to submit only one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following material electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Tuesday, November 10, 2009:

Name and department of the Principal Investigator
Names of international partners
Project narrative (4 pages maximum) including a problem statement, project goals, implementation, evaluation and timeline.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Trans-Saharan Professionals Program

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for grants to conduct one of three professional exchange programs in the Trans-Sahara Africa Region. The Office anticipates awarding separate grants to three different organizations, one for each of the three themes presented in this announcement.

Themes. Specific grant awards will be made for Professional Fellowships to be carried out in the following themes and countries:

Elections Fellows: Grant not to exceed $650,000

This special Professional Exchanges initiative will engage governmental and nongovernmental leaders on the following and related issues at the grassroots level that contribute to free and fair elections: voter registration and education, election monitoring, campaign guidelines, the role of media and citizens’ organizations, and protection of voter privacy. Countries: Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal

Business Development Fellows: Grant not to exceed $600,000
This new Professional Exchanges program will offer entrepreneurship education, including the skills to assess business risk without crushing it and an emphasis on creating new jobs or businesses. These skills will include identifying a market, raising start-up funds, designing a business plan, managing staff, advertising, and understanding the legal environment for business development. The focus will be on five francophone West African countries with similar colonial histories: Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Niger, and Senegal.

Leadership Fellows: Grant not to exceed $400,000
This program will promote leadership development in community and governmental affairs in three of the five eligible countries. Grant applicants must choose three countries from the list below and explain those choices. The program will emphasize both leadership skills and ethical standards, while introducing participants to the structure and foundation of the U.S. government, emphasizing separation of powers, checks and balances, transparency in operations, as well as citizen participation in the decision-making process. Participants will observe diverse examples of leadership and the evolving role of women and minorities in business, government, community, and social affairs. This project could focus on leaders in dispute resolution and cross-cultural dialogue, community organizers, activists from grassroots organizations, business leaders, media representatives, and/or government officials. Countries: Choose three from these eligible countries: Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal

For more information on this competition see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Applicants may submit only one proposal under this competition. If multiple proposals are received from the same applicant, all submissions will be declared technically ineligible and receive no further consideration in the review process.

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project (include theme and countries chosen)
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's applicant - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is May 20, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - U.S./Afghanistan Professional Partnership Program

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is seeking proposals for a new program, called “The U.S./Afghanistan Professional Partnership Program.” This program will bring young professionals from the two countries together to develop cross cultural relationships and develop professional skills that will positively impact people’s lives and will result in stronger ties between the two nations.

The project is focused on professionals working in the judicial system and public administration and will be designed to demonstrate best practices, offer professional development opportunities, and support internships at U.S-based workplaces for Afghan professionals. The program will involve provincial and district (state, local) public administration officials, district attorney offices, legal aid offices, case workers, and judges where possible.

For more information on this competition see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's applicant - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is May 21, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - U.S. - Indonesia Youth Leadership Program and Youth Leadership Program with Burma

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for two distinct Youth Leadership Programs with Indonesia and Burma. Organizations may submit proposals to conduct three- to four-week U.S.-based exchange programs for teenagers and adult educators. Participants will be high-school-aged youth and adult educators. The program with Indonesia is a two-way exchange; applicants must propose both an exchange for Indonesian participants in the United States and an exchange for American participants in Indonesia. Applicants should plan to recruit and select between 24 and 34 youth and adult participants total in Indonesia and in the United States. The new program with Burma is a one-way exchange; applicants should plan to provide U.S.-based programming for 16-20 youth and adult participants from Burma. The activities for each program will focus on civic education, leadership, diversity, and community engagement and prepare participants to conduct projects at home that serve a community need. Pending the availability of funds, it is the Bureau’s intent to award two cooperative agreements: (1) $275,000 for Indonesia, and (2) $110,000 for Burma, each for one base year plus two option years.

Limited Submission: An applicant may submit only one proposal in this competition, for only one of the two programs.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=218033

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 25, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of - U.S. Institutes on American Politics, Literature, Religious Pluralism, Foreign Policy and Institute for Secondary Educators

The US Department of State plans to make one award to five different Institutes that focus on promoting a better understanding of American society, culture, values and institutions to improve the quality of teaching and strengthen curricula about the United States at academic institutions abroad. The five Institutes are:
1) The Study of the United States Institute on American Politics and Political Thought ; one award of up to $280,000;
2) The Study of the United States Institute on Contemporary American Literature; one award of up to $280,000;
3) The Study of the United States Institute on Religious Pluralism in the United States; one award of up to $280,000;
4) The Study of the United States Institute on U.S. Foreign Policy; one award of up to $280,000; and
5) The Study of the United States Institute for Secondary Educators; one award of up to $350,000.

Participants in each Institute will be a multinational group of experienced and highly-motivated foreign professionals and specialists in the area. Each Institute is to include an academic residency component of at least four weeks beginning in June 2008 that maximizes interaction between participants and presenters during classroom sessions; provide opportunity for limited but well-directed independent research; and include an educational travel program. Guidelines and additional information are available at: http://exchanges.state.gov/education/rfgps/dec14rfgp.htm

Most recent internal deadline: November 16, 2007.

Most recent external deadline: December 14, 2007.

State, U.S. Department of - US/Pakistan Professional Partnership Program

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) is seeking proposals for a new two-part program called “The U.S./Pakistan Professional Partnership Program.” This program will bring young professionals (ages 20-35) from the two countries together to develop cross cultural relationships and develop professional skills that will positively impact people’s lives and will result in stronger ties between the two nations.

ECA is seeking proposals from qualified applicants for two separate programs. The Bureau expects funding in the amount of approximately $3,700,000 to be available for these programs and expects to award a total of two grants in this competition, one for each topic.

Applicants may not submit more than one proposal for in this entire competition.

The first project - “Professional Partnerships: Journalism” - will involve Pakistani and American journalists in a program designed to demonstrate journalism skills, offer professional development opportunities, and offer internships at U.S-based media outlets for Pakistani journalists.

The second project - “Professional Partnerships: Public Administration” – will examine the skills employed by American and Pakistani public administration professionals at the national, regional, and local levels. This program will include internships for Pakistani professionals with U.S.-based professionals.

For more information on this competition see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as UK's candidate - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is April 9, 2010.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Western Hemisphere Regional Marginalized Communities Business Human Rights

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals for projects that promote democracy, human rights, and rule of law in Peru, Guatemala, and Panama. DRL seeks proposals for an 18-month project directed at improving the consultative process and facilitating dialogue among marginalized communities and stakeholders in the public and private sector on issues related to natural resource extraction. The project should increase marginalized groups' access to technical, legal, and environmental advice while creating sustainable connections and networks among communities, government and the private sector.

DRL anticipates making one award in the range of $500,000- $750,000.

For guidelines and additional information see the complete funding opportunity announcement: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=175433

The Department of State encourages only one (1) proposal per organization under this competition.

Internal Notification: Due to the organizational limits for this solicitation, interested applicants must notify the Proposal Development Office (PDO@uky.edu or 257-2861) of intent to apply by Monday, June 25, 2012.

The Department of State deadline is July 11, 2012.

State, U.S. Department of - Workshops for Youth Leaders in Teaching of English and Social Media & Civil Society

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces funding for two distinct series of workshops that will each be presented to three consecutive groups of international students participating in ECA-funded high school exchange programs. The theme of one workshop will be English language teaching, and the theme of the other will be using social media and other technologies in the promotion of civil society. The approximate timing of workshops will be February to April of 2013, 2014, and 2015.

Two cooperative agreements of $300,000- $450,000 are expected to be made. Applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=nLdzPqvc20xH1Mbn83pZVGhsdr0Q7bFvH3Nyvvkqh9dZCyv1WMhR!64499778?oppId=168634&mode=VIEW

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition. The proposal may address both three-workshop series or only one series topic.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one application, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in applying to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, May 17, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

A short description (1-2 pages) of the proposed workshop series
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Department of State deadline is May 31, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of - Young Turkey / Young America: A New Relationship for a New Age

The Young Turkey / Young America Program was created to recognize and support “one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world”, create opportunities for sustained partnerships, and identify ways to deepen ties between emerging young leaders in both countries. Young Turkey / Young America seeks to enhance the ability of rising leaders to more effectively engage in public dialogue, and establish projects of mutual concern around economic, environmental, political, and social challenges facing Turkey and the United States in the 21st Century. Through a two-way professional exchange model, complemented by a robust leadership development component, experiential learning opportunities, and collaborative exercises, Young Turkey / Young America provides opportunities for eligible individuals to work together to advance foreign policy dialogue, enhance their leadership skills, develop or strengthen existing partnerships, and advance concrete strategies to better address complex issues facing both countries.

The first project theme “Foreign Policy Dialogue Among Emerging Leaders” will link young Turkish and American leaders in substantive foreign policy dialogue on issues of importance to both countries.

The second project theme “Social and Economic Challenges for Future Leaders” will work to expand the capacity of nascent grassroots or not-for-profit organizations working in or with disadvantaged communities to address existing socio-economic issues and challenges.

Further information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

Project overview – (1-2 pages) brief description of activities

State, U.S. Department of - Youth Ambassadors Program with North America, Central America, and the Caribbean

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for the Youth Ambassadors Program with North America, Central America and the Caribbean. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to recruit and select youth and adult participants, to provide them with three-week exchanges focused on civic education, community service, and leadership, and to support follow-on projects in their home communities. It is anticipated that exchange delegations will travel from select countries to the United States, and that U.S. exchange delegations will travel to select countries.

In one proposal, organizations may apply for one, two, three, or all four of the options outlined below, but must submit only one proposal under this competition.

These options will allow applicants the flexibility to propose working with the countries in which they have the best infrastructure. The Bureau strongly urges organizations to limit their applications to the option(s) where they have the strongest institutional capacity in each country; this capacity must be thoroughly described in the proposal. Please note the approximate funding for each option.

- Option 1: North America (approximately $500,000)
- Option 2: Central America (approximately $1,500,000)
- Option 3: Caribbean (approximately $650,000)
- Option 4: Haiti (approximately $350,000)

For more information see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Because the Department of State limits eligible institutions to only one proposal, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to send the following information electronically to the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, March 25, 2010:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel, partner countries and participating organizations
Identify the specific Project and provide an overview of the program objectives, proposed themes, activities, and follow-on in-country (maximum 3 pages)
Proposed budget - funding level requested, program cost, total cost-sharing from applicant and other sources.

A committee will be appointed to review the applications and make a recommendation. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663). The Dept. of State deadline is April 22, 2010.

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Ambassadors Program with South America

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals to recruit and select youth and adult participants, to provide the participants with three-week exchanges, and to support follow-on projects in their home communities. Exchange delegations will travel from 10 South American countries to the United States, and U.S. exchange delegations will travel to select countries.

The program objectives are for participants to:

Demonstrate a better understanding of the elements of a participatory democracy in action;
Demonstrate critical thinking and leadership skills; and
Demonstrate skill at developing project ideas and planning a course of action to bring the projects to fruition.

The primary program themes are:

Civic Education (Citizen Participation, Grassroots Democracy and Rule of Law);
Community Service; and
Youth Leadership Development

There are two options under this program and organizations may apply for one or both of the options in one proposal.

Option 1: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela (approximately $1,250,000 total, with one to four awards)
Option 2: Brazil (approximately $250,000)

Limited Submission: Organizations must submit only one proposal under this competition.

See the complete solicitation for additional details and requirements: http://eca.state.gov/files/bureau/yap-rfgp.pdf

If cost sharing will be offered, include an estimated budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

Deadline: The Department of State deadline is March 29, 2013.

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Ambassadors Program with South America and Mexico

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for the Youth Ambassadors Program with Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela, and the United States. Public and private non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations may submit proposals to recruit and select youth and adult participants and to provide the participants with three-week exchanges focused on civic education, community service, and leadership along with follow-on projects in their home communities. For planning purposes, it is anticipated that exchange delegations will travel from all 13 countries to the United States, and U.S. exchange delegations will travel to six South American countries.

The total amount of funding available is $3,000,000. ECA anticipates awarding approximately three grants. The Bureau reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal project configurations and budgets in accordance with the needs of the program and the availability of funds.

Applicant organizations may apply for one, two, or all three of the options outlined below. The Bureau strongly urges organizations to limit their applications to the option(s) where they have the strongest institutional capacity in every country; this capacity must be thoroughly described in the proposal. Please note the funding range for each option.

Option One: Southern Cone regional project (Project A): $900,000-$1,000,000
Option Two: Andean regional project (Project B) plus a single-country or joint project (one of Projects C through F below): $850,000-$1,000,000
Option Three: Three or four single-country projects or joint project (Projects C through G below): $750,000-$1,000,00

If an organization chooses Option Two or Option Three, please note that the intention is to have these projects conducted separately and distinctly from one another.

The list below identifies the project name, the language in which the exchange will be conducted, the requested secondary themes (of which applicants choose one), and whether an exchange to the partner country by U.S. students and teachers is requested.

Project A: Southern Cone (Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay) Regional project. English. Secondary theme: Environment, Drug and alcohol abuse prevention, Business and entrepreneurship, or Alternatives to violence. U.S.-to-Chile and U.S.-to-Paraguay exchanges.
Project B: Andean (Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru) Regional project. Spanish. Secondary theme: Environment, Business and entrepreneurship, or Drug and alcohol abuse prevention. U.S.-to-Ecuador exchange.
Project C: Colombia Single-country project. English. Secondary theme: Drug and alcohol abuse prevention.
Project D: Venezuela Single-country project. English. Secondary theme: Environment, Drug and alcohol abuse prevention, or Business and entrepreneurship.
Project E: Suriname and Guyana Joint project. English. Secondary theme: Environment, Business and entrepreneurship, or Drug and alcohol abuse prevention. U.S.-to-Suriname/Guyana exchange.
Project F: Mexico Single-country project. Spanish. Secondary theme: Alternatives to violence.
Project G: Brazil Single-country project. English. Secondary theme: Business and entrepreneurship. U.S.-to-Brazil exchange.

For more information see: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Most recent internal deadline: May 18, 2009.

Most recent external deadline: May 28, 2009.

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Leadership Program

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals to provide two or more separate three- to four-week group exchanges in the United States for teenage and adult participants. Activities will focus on civic education, community service, and youth leadership development and will prepare participants to complete follow-on projects in their home communities. U.S. Embassies in the participating countries will recruit, screen, and select the participants. A delegation may include participants from a single country or from multiple countries, to be determined in consultation with Department stakeholders as emerging events and opportunities dictate. The successful applicant will demonstrate flexibility regarding exchange dates, delegation sizes (14 - 25 expected per group), and country combinations.

Two cooperative agreements of up to $325,000 each will be awarded. Applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding. The award period will be 18 to 24 months, beginning in September, 2012.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=164473

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
A short description (1-2 pages) of the proposed exchange program including orientations, logistics, exchange and follow-on activities.
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 31, 2012. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Leadership Program with Algeria

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for the Youth Leadership Program with Algeria. Public and private nonprofit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide youth and adult participants from Algeria with an approximately four-week U.S.-based exchange program in summer 2012 focused on civic education, youth leadership development, respect for diversity, and community engagement, and to support follow-on community service projects in their home communities. The U.S. Embassy in Algiers will recruit, screen, and select Algerian participants. The award recipient will be required to recruit, screen, and select American participants, and collaborate with an in-country partner on logistical arrangements and follow-on activities.

Organizations may submit only one proposal (total) under this competition. If more than one proposal is received from the same applicant, all submissions will be declared technically ineligible and will receive no further consideration in the review process.

For more information on this competition see: https://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as one of UK's candidates - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is January 4, 2012.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Leadership Program with South Asia (Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives) and the Youth Leadership Program with Azerbaijan

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for two Youth Leadership Programs: the Youth Leadership Program with South Asia (Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives) and the Youth Leadership Program with Azerbaijan. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals for reciprocal exchange programs for high school students and adult participants. For the Youth Leadership Program with South Asia, hereinafter referred to as Program A, applicants should plan to recruit and select approximately 30 youth and adult participants in the Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the United States. For the Youth Leadership Program with Azerbaijan, hereinafter referred to as Program B, applicants should plan to recruit and select approximately 105-125 youth and adult participants in Azerbaijan and in the United States. In both programs, applicants will provide the participants with substantive three-week exchanges in the partner countries that focus broadly on the themes of civic rights and responsibilities, youth leadership development, respect for diversity, and community activism. Activities will be geared toward preparing participants to conduct projects at home that serve a community need.

Program A Guidelines: Youth Leadership Program with South Asia

The cooperative agreement will begin on or about September 1, 2011, pending the availability of funds. The award period will be approximately 14 to 18 months in duration, according to the applicant’s program design. Applicants should propose the timing of the exchange delegations: one South Asian delegation traveling to the United States and one or two American delegations traveling to South Asia. Each delegation will travel for three weeks. The exchanges will take place in 2012. Applicants should propose the period of the exchanges based on the timeframes noted above. Dates may be shifted by the mutual agreement of the Department and the award recipient.

Program B Guidelines: Youth Leadership Program with Azerbaijan

The cooperative agreement will begin on or about September 1, 2011. The cooperative agreement period will be approximately 20 to 30 months in duration, according to the applicant’s program design. Applicants should propose the timing of multiple exchange delegations to be sent to the United States or Azerbaijan in manageable group sizes throughout the award period. Each delegation will travel for three weeks. Proposals should account for four to six delegations: three to five Azerbaijani delegations traveling to the United States and one or two American delegations traveling to Azerbaijan. Each delegation should focus on the program goals and objectives, but all delegations do not need to focus on the same programmatic themes or topics. The exchanges will take place in 2012 and 2013. Dates may be shifted by the mutual agreement of the Department and the award recipient.

Further information can be found at: http://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Organizations may submit only one proposal (total), for either Program A or Program B. Proposals for the two programs will be judged independently and will be compared only to proposals for the same region.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel, and the option selected,

Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is May 11, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Leadership Programs with Southeast Asia and with the Philippines

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) is supporting two Youth Leadership Programs, one with up to ten countries in Southeast Asia (member states of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)) and one with the Philippines. Each program will feature exchanges to the United States that are three to four weeks in length for students (ages 15-17) and adult educators. Youth Leadership Programs are designed to promote high-quality leadership, civic responsibility, and civic engagement among future leaders. They offer an examination of the principles of democracy and civil society as practiced in the United States and provide participants with training that allows them to develop their leadership skills.The applicant should present a program plan that allows the participants to thoroughly explore civic education in the United States in a creative, memorable, and hands-on way. The ECA anticipates awarding one grant for the Southeast Asia Youth Leadership Program at approximately $280,000 and one grant for the Youth Leadership Program with the Philippines at approximately $250,000. Applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding in support of its programs but the sponsor does not specify an exact dollars amount or a percentage. Further information can be found at:
http://exchanges.state.gov/media/pdfs/rfgps/ylp-rfgp.pdf An organization may submit up to two (2) proposals in this competition, one for each project (one project is the Southeast Asia Youth Leadership Program and the other is the Youth Leadership Program with the Philippines).

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit two applications (one for each project), the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process. Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Monday, April 16, 2012:

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel
Specify the proposed program - Southeast Asia Youth Leadership Program or Youth Leadership Program with the Philippines
A short description (1-2 pages) of the project team’s program plan, along with the activities in which the students will take part
If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note: Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Leadership Program with Sub-Saharan Africa

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for the Youth Leadership Program with Sub-Saharan Africa. Public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide youth and adult participants with three-week exchanges focused on civic education, community service, and youth leadership development, and to support follow-on projects in their home communities. U.S. Embassies in the participating countries will recruit, screen, and select the participants. ECA anticipates awarding one or two cooperative agreements that will support approximately 100 participants from 10 countries. Exchanges for participants from Anglophone countries will be conducted in English, and exchanges for participants from Francophone countries will be conducted in French. The awards will be contingent upon the availability of FY-2011 funds.

Project Options:

The amount of funding available is approximately $550,000, pending the availability of funds. ECA anticipates awarding one or two cooperative agreements for the management of the Youth Leadership Program with Sub-Saharan Africa. One project will be conducted in English for 40 participants from four Anglophone countries of Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and Tanzania; one project will be conducted in French for 60 participants from six Francophone countries of Burkina Faso, Chad, Cote D’Ivoire, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger. The Bureau reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal project configurations, budgets, and participant numbers in accordance with the needs of the program and the availability of funds. In addition, the Bureau reserves the right to adjust the participating countries should conditions change in the partner country or if other countries are identified as Department priorities.

Organizations may apply for the Anglophone countries project, the Francophone countries project, or for both project options, but must submit only one proposal under this competition. Multiple submissions will be declared technically ineligible and will not be considered further in the review process. Please note the approximate funding for each option. The Bureau suggests a per capita cost between $5,000 and $6,000 for this program (applicants need not budget for participant international airfare). The Francophone countries project per capita costs may fall in the upper range due to the added cost for French interpretation.

Option 1: Anglophone countries (approximately $220,000)

A regional project conducted in English for 40 participants from Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania. Approximately 10 participants (8 youth and 2 adults) from each participating country will travel to the United States.

Option 2: Francophone countries (approximately $330,000)

A regional project conducted in French for 60 participants from Burkina Faso, Chad, Cote D’Ivoire, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger. Approximately 10 participants (8 youth and 2 adults) from each participating country will travel to the United States. French language interpreters must be provided for U.S. programming.

For Both Options:

Regional projects should include activities where participants from several countries interact to share ideas and work on program themes during the U.S. exchange. However, not all delegations must travel to the United States at the same time. It is suitable to break them up into smaller sub-groups, but should keep a mix of participants from several countries. Applicants who propose to host a large delegation in the United States at one time must propose a plan to break it into smaller cohorts for most of the exchange activities. Applicants are encouraged to be creative and flexible in making arrangements that will help meet our program goals.

Further information can be found at: http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=75013
Click on Full Announcement at the top of the page.

Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel, and the option selected,

Project overview – (1-2 pages) identify the proposed theme(s), objectives, and brief description of activities

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation. The Dept. of State deadline is April 14, 2011. Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

State, U.S. Department of – Youth Leadership Program: TechGirls

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division, of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for the new Youth Leadership Program “TechGirls.” Public and private non-profit organizations may submit proposals to conduct a three- to five-week exchange program in the United States in Summer 2012 focused on promoting high-level study of technology for high school girls from the Middle East and North Africa. U.S. Embassies in the participating countries and territories will recruit, screen, and select the teenage girls. The program will provide an exchange of academic study of applied technology for girls who already have a demonstrated aptitude and strong interest in the subject, will empower girls to pursue higher education and careers in technology, and will support activities in the participants‟ home countries that are designed to reinforce and support the skills and linkages acquired during the U.S. program.

For more information on this competition see: https://exchanges.state.gov/grants/open2.html

Names and departments of PI and co-investigators
Name of the specific project
Description of proposed project (including objectives and activities) and justification or rationale for why the proposed project should be selected as one of UK's candidates - maximum 2 pages.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make recommendations as to the University’s selected applicant. The Department of State deadline is December 15, 2011.

Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

University of Kentucky - UK Research
Updated 05/03/13 by Jennifer Hill