The U.S. Embassy in Tirana has announced a funding opportunity for organizations to participate in the American Spaces program for 2025-2026, focusing on cybersecurity education and engagement under the theme "America 250/Science & Technology." The initiative aims to celebrate 250 years of American advancements in science and technology, with a special focus on leadership in cybersecurity.
The program will be implemented at American Corners located in Tirana, Vlora, and Kukes. Organizations interested in applying must submit their proposals by August 27, 2025. Each selected organization may receive up to $6,000 per location, totaling $18,000 across all three sites.
According to the notice, "American Spaces are the U.S. government’s primary information and cultural centers worldwide, promoting American values and showcasing the United States as a leader in economics and innovation. They align with U.S. foreign policy and national security goals, enhancing economic security through English language learning and professional skills-building."
Eligible organizations are required to have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from SAM.gov and an active registration on that platform. Individuals do not need these registrations but cannot apply as individuals.
The Embassy is seeking creative proposals that engage youth aged 18 or older—including university students, young professionals, startup leaders, and aspiring tech innovators—in hands-on activities related to cybersecurity. Activities could include workshops, training sessions, simulations of cyber intrusions, mentorships with U.S. experts or companies, hackathons, case studies using U.S.-based best practices for digital safety, networking events with industry professionals from the United States sector of cybersecurity (see https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration for more details about entity registration).
Applicants should propose programs that introduce participants to American technology standards while strengthening ties between Albania and the United States through collaborative learning experiences focused on preventing cyberattacks and addressing online threats.
"Aligned with the America 250 theme," states the announcement,"this program celebrates the United States’ advancements in science and technology over the past 250 years, with a focus on its leadership in cybersecurity." The goal is also "to introduce and leverage American technology, innovation, and standards to enhance cybersecurity awareness and skills among Albanian youth."
Applicants may only submit one proposal per organization; multiple submissions from one group will result in disqualification. Proposals must detail how they intend to involve U.S.-based expertise or partnerships as part of their programming.
Successful applications will be evaluated based on alignment with embassy priorities (35%), quality of program idea (20%), monitoring plan (20%), budget justification (15%), organizational capacity (10%). Payments will be made via installments upon completion of required documentation such as form SF-270—Request for Advance or Reimbursement.
All awarded funds are subject to restrictions outlined by federal regulations: they may not be used for subawards involving UNRWA or initiatives supporting mass migration toward the U.S., nor can they support legal counseling regarding asylum processes. Funds must comply fully with Executive Order 14173 relating to nondiscrimination.
Organizations interested should consult all application guidelines carefully before submitting materials via email to tiranapdresources@state.gov no later than August 27 at midnight CET.