Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026 | LIBREVILLE AEIF 2026 01

Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026 - FAQs

What is the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026?

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026 is a discretionary grant opportunity offered by the U.S. Embassy in Libreville (U.S. Mission to Gabon) to support projects that are created and led by alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs.

What is the main purpose of AEIF 2026?

The core goal is to strengthen ties between the United States and Gabon by funding practical, locally relevant projects that reflect shared priorities and create visible, people-to-people connections.

Who is offering this grant opportunity?

The opportunity is offered by the U.S. Embassy in Libreville (U.S. Mission to Gabon).

Who is eligible to apply?

Applications must come from teams that include at least two alumni of U.S. government exchange programs. The exchange alumni must lead the design and implementation and keep primary responsibility for delivering the project.

Do applicants need to apply as an organization, or can individuals apply?

Teams can apply either as individuals or through an eligible organization, as long as the team includes at least two eligible exchange alumni and alumni remain in charge of the project.

What types of organizations can be involved as eligible applicants?

Eligible organizations may include not-for-profit organizations (such as NGOs, civil society organizations, and think tanks), public or private educational institutions, public international organizations, and governmental institutions.

Which exchange programs count toward the alumni requirement?

The notice lists examples such as IVLP, YALI, the Fulbright Program, the Humphrey Fellowship, the Mandela Washington Fellowship, and the Open English Language Program, among other U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchanges.

How many alumni are required on a project team?

At least two alumni of U.S. government exchange programs must be included on the applying team.

Do exchange alumni have to be the project leaders?

Yes. The opportunity is centered on exchange alumni leadership, and alumni must remain in charge of project design and implementation, with primary responsibility for delivering the project.

Can a project include partners that are not exchange alumni?

Yes. Teams may collaborate with outside partners such as civil society groups, schools, private sector entities, and others, but the exchange alumni must remain in charge.

What kinds of projects are expected to be competitive?

Competitive proposals are expected to be well-structured and results-focused, with clear objectives and measurable outcomes.

What topics or sectors does the Embassy prioritize?

The program favors projects that align with U.S. foreign policy priorities and showcase American excellence and best practices, including in areas such as entrepreneurship, technology and innovation, education, civic engagement, and environmental stewardship.

What does it mean to align with U.S. foreign policy priorities?

Based on the notice, alignment means proposing projects that reflect shared U.S.-Gabon priorities and that promote collaboration with U.S. partners, values, and approaches, while producing practical and locally relevant benefits in Gabon.

What is the Freedom250 theme, and is it required?

Freedom250 is a theme marking the United States' 250th anniversary of independence, emphasizing enduring principles like freedom, democratic governance, and civic participation. The announcement encourages proposals that connect to Freedom250.

Where must the project activities take place?

The opportunity describes supporting community needs in Gabon and strengthening ties between the United States and Gabon, indicating a focus on projects that are locally relevant in Gabon.

What is the maximum project duration?

Funded projects may run for up to twelve months, and applicants should plan activities and deliverables that can realistically be completed within a one-year performance period.

What is the maximum award amount (award ceiling)?

The award ceiling is $70,000.

What type of funding instrument is used?

The funding instrument type is a grant.

What is the opportunity category?

The opportunity category is listed as discretionary.

What is the funding opportunity number for AEIF 2026?

The funding opportunity number is LIBREVILLE AEIF 2026 01.

What is the CFDA number for this opportunity?

The CFDA number is 19.022.

When is the application due?

The grant closing date has been updated, and proposals are due by May 16, 2026.

Is subcontracting allowed?

Yes. The opportunity allows subcontracting, but the application needs to clearly describe who does what.

How should roles be described if subcontractors or other entities are involved?

The proposal should clearly spell out each party's roles and responsibilities, including who is responsible for which components of the project.

How many prime recipients can there be on an application?

Only one non-profit, non-governmental entity can serve as the prime recipient of the award.

What guidance applies to subrecipients versus contractors?

The notice points applicants to federal guidance at 2 CFR 200.331, which explains distinctions and expectations related to subrecipients versus contractors.

What should a project proposal emphasize to be successful?

The announcement emphasizes innovative ideas that use alumni expertise, leadership skills, and professional networks; address community needs in Gabon; promote collaboration with U.S. partners, values, and approaches; and include clear objectives with measurable outcomes.

Does the Embassy prefer certain kinds of project approaches?

Yes. The program description highlights projects that showcase American excellence and best practices and that create visible, people-to-people connections between the United States and Gabon.