The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek's Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) has announced a new initiative to boost Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in the Kyrgyz Republic. The announcement is part of an open competition aimed at enhancing access to STEM resources, particularly in rural provinces. These efforts are intended to address the challenges of economic opportunity limitations and the resulting brain drain in the country.
The PDS highlights the need for Kyrgyzstan to expand educational opportunities in STEM fields, improve the training of educators, attract investments, and modernize curricula. The goal is to prepare citizens of Kyrgyzstan for careers in STEM and foster partnerships with U.S. businesses and investors. The program also aims to position the United States as a leading partner for the Kyrgyz Republic in opening new markets.
Eligible applicants for this initiative include not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions registered in the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as U.S. non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and individuals seeking to support cultural and educational programs. It is important to note that for-profit entities are not eligible to apply, although organizations may subcontract with other entities.
Cost-sharing or matching is not a requirement for this funding opportunity. However, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov and valid registration in SAM.gov. Individuals are exempt from these registration requirements.
Applicants are permitted to submit only one proposal per organization. Those sending multiple proposals will be deemed ineligible. Extra consideration will be given to programs that utilize resources from American Spaces or involve U.S. Government (USG) program alumni.
Projects relating to partisan political activity, charitable or development activities, construction, religious activities, fundraising, lobbying, scientific research, commercial projects, organizational growth, duplicate projects, illegal activities, or excessive equipment purchases are not eligible for support under this program.
Proposals must adhere to specific guidelines, including addressing the funding opportunity's goals and objectives in English, submitting budgets in U.S. dollars, numbering all pages, and including authorized signatures on required forms.
The funding instrument type for this initiative is a grant or cooperative agreement, with projects expected to be completed in 12 months or less. Continuation grants may be available, contingent on funding, program progress, and alignment with the interests of the U.S. Department of State.
"This notice is subject to availability of funding. The Public Diplomacy Section reserves the right to award less or more than the funds described under circumstances deemed to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated grants officer."