The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Korea has announced a funding opportunity aimed at strengthening energy cooperation between the United States and South Korea. The initiative, titled "U.S.-ROK Energy Partnership for Economic Growth and Security," is accepting applications until September 2, 2025.
According to the embassy, this program will focus on collaboration to address shared challenges in energy security. Efforts will include enhancing bilateral cooperation to ensure stable and diversified energy supplies. The partnership also aims to tackle issues such as infrastructure development, regulatory alignment, and vulnerabilities in supply chains.
The program will bring together policymakers, regulatory officials, and business leaders from both countries through workshops, exchange programs, and strategic dialogues. These activities are designed to develop solutions to energy security concerns.
In a statement outlining the purpose of the initiative, the embassy said: "This program seeks to strengthen the strategic relationship between the United States and Korea by fostering collaboration on shared energy security challenges. This initiative will focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation to ensure stable, resilient, and diversified energy supplies, while addressing critical issues such as infrastructure development, regulatory alignment, and supply chain vulnerabilities."
Further emphasizing key priorities of the partnership: "Through workshops, exchange programs, and strategic dialogues, energy policymakers, regulatory officials, and business leaders from Korea and the United States will work together to develop actionable solutions to energy security challenges. The program will emphasize the importance of reducing dependence on foreign adversaries, safeguarding critical energy infrastructure, and promoting transparent and efficient energy markets."
The embassy highlighted that focusing on these goals would help both nations: "By focusing on energy security as a shared priority, the program will contribute to economic growth, national security, and the long-term stability of both nations."
A total of $100,000 in funding is available for this initiative under FY25 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds. Details about objectives and requirements can be found in Section C of the full PDF NOFO document.
Applications must be submitted via email only at SeoulPDGrants@state.gov by 11:59 p.m., September 2 (GMT+9). For additional information or questions regarding this opportunity or application process applicants are encouraged to contact SeoulPDGrants@state.gov.