Since its inception in 2011, the U.S. Department of State has funded over 500 projects through the AlumniEngagement Innovation Fund, also known as AEIF. These projects, led by alumni of U.S. government exchange programs - ExchangeAlumni, have increased regional and global collaboration of alumni, supported U.S. foreign policy objectives, and benefited communities around the world.

How can you find out more about next year’s competition, including competition deadlines and where to apply? Reach out to your  nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for more information or visit their website. U.S. Embassies and Consulates each run the competition at their discretion.

All AEIF projects must address at least one of the following:

  • Bring ExchangeAlumni together from different exchange programs to build or expand an ExchangeAlumni network capable of working together on common interests, and increase regional and global alumni collaboration
  • Strengthen the relationship between alumni and the U.S. government to work together on activities that address mutual goals and challenges
  • Support ExchangeAlumni as they develop their leadership capacity and implement projects in their communities

Each AEIF project proposal must also include the involvement of at least two or more ExchangeAlumni, or involve at least one ExchangeAlumni and an alumni association, and be led by a non-U.S. citizen ExchangeAlumni.  All project activities must take place outside of the United States and its territories.

To be considered, AEIF proposals must be submitted to your local U.S. Embassy. Only proposals submitted using the official forms will be considered for funding.

Examples of recent, successful AEIF projects include:

  • Young Conservationists to Save the Wildlife - this project will raise awareness among Vietnamese youth about the importance of wildlife protection and threats raised by illegal wildlife trade. The project will engage 800 high school and university students through a media campaign competition and a volunteer program at a national park to increase awareness and engagement about biodiversity conservation and sustainability.
  • ATLAS (Atlantic Academy of Space) - this project will introduce Atlantic Canadian high school students to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, including space exploration and artificial intelligence. In cooperation with local project partners, the project will design a course to be delivered to 20 high school classrooms throughout the academic school year, providing over 600 high school students (particularly schools in Indigenous and Black communities) with critical guidance and insight into STEM careers.
  • STAND OUT: Empowering the Current and Next Generation of Women Entrepreneurs in Togo - this project will empower 175 women in a leadership capacity by fostering entrepreneurship skills among female students and business owners. The mentorships provided will support a historically underrepresented group in Togo and promote trade and sustainable business practices with export opportunities to American markets.

Learn more about recent AEIF winning teams and AEIF success stories to find out how exchange alumni are making a difference in their communities with AEIF grants.

 

Find Your Local U.S. Embassy or Consulate

USEmbassy.gov