The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs is soliciting proposals for innovative foreign‑assistance projects in Egypt that advance U.S. commercial diplomacy, economic interests, and strategic objectives. Applicants may be NGOs, universities, for‑profit firms, or international/governmental entities that can operate legally in Egypt. Funding is provided via cooperative agreements or fixed‑amount awards, with up to seven awards anticipated and a total ceiling of $25 million. Projects may address energy, trade, AI/telecommunications, critical infrastructure, minerals, regional integration, advanced manufacturing, workforce training, or post‑conflict economic recovery. Performance periods range from 12 to 36 months, and proposals are due 31 August 2026 (rolling review thereafter). Awards will be made on a rolling basis subject to fund availability.
• Eligible sectors: energy, AI, telecom, aviation, transport, minerals, manufacturing, education, water, agriculture.
• Expected deliverables: market‑oriented pilots, capacity‑building, private‑capital leverage, U.S. technology transfer.
• Funding instrument: Cooperative Agreement or Fixed‑Amount Award (up to $18 M per award for specific topics).
• Required registrations: SAM/UEI, MyGrants account, compliance with 2 CFR 200.
• Evaluation criteria include alignment with U.S. policy, commercial impact, feasibility, and sustainability.