Diplomatic Training Program for the U.S. Freely Associated States | SFOP0007253

Opportunity Information: Apply for SFOP0007253

The Diplomatic Training Program for the U.S. Freely Associated States is a discretionary grant opportunity issued by the U.S. Department of State, Office of the Secretary, through the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (EAP). It supports a single project designed to strengthen the diplomatic capacity of the three U.S. Freely Associated States (FAS): the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau. The central purpose is to help these governments build a stronger pipeline of trained diplomats who can represent national interests effectively in regional and global settings, improve engagement with international institutions, and advocate more confidently on policy priorities.

This opportunity is rooted in the Compacts of Free Association, under which the United States provides substantial support to the FAS, including efforts that build public-sector capability. FAS leaders have identified diplomacy as a specific area where additional training is needed, noting an ongoing gap in structured preparation for new foreign affairs officials. The announcement highlights that officials from FSM, RMI, and Palau have repeatedly asked the Department of State to reintroduce training comparable to diplomatic courses offered in the 1990s. In practical terms, the grant is meant to create or deliver a focused training program for FAS government officials that improves professional diplomatic skills and strengthens the institutional capacity of their foreign affairs functions.

From a U.S. policy perspective, the program is also framed as a way to reinforce close bilateral relationships with these strategically located Pacific partners. By investing in the professional development of FAS diplomats, the United States aims to support more effective cooperation, deepen long-term ties, and help ensure that these governments have the tools to participate meaningfully in international dialogue and decision-making. The activity aligns with regional development objectives and is listed under CFDA number 19.124, reflecting its placement within the State Department's assistance programming.

Administratively, the funding opportunity number is SFOP0007253, and the funding instrument is a grant. The competition is limited to eligible applicants that are U.S.-based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, excluding institutions of higher education. The opportunity anticipated one award, with an award ceiling of $246,913. The funding notice was created on August 5, 2020, with an original application deadline of August 26, 2020.

• The Department of State, Office of the Secretary in the regional development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Diplomatic Training Program for the U.S. Freely Associated States" and is now available to receive applicants.
• Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 19.124.
• This funding opportunity was created on Aug 05, 2020.
• Applicants must submit their applications by Aug 26, 2020. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
• Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $246,913.00 in funding.
• The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 1 candidate(s).
• Eligible applicants include: Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education.

Apply for SFOP0007253

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