The U.S. Embassy in Sofia is offering grants to support projects that strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Bulgaria. These projects should align with U.S. foreign policy goals and include a U.S. element, like working with American experts or organizations. The focus is on areas like security, economic growth, innovation, and freedom of speech. Grants range from $500 to $25,000, and proposals are accepted until June 15, 2026.
Who it's for: This grant is for Bulgarian, European, or U.S.-based organizations and individuals with experience in executing programs. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society/non-governmental organizations, individuals, non-profit or governmental educational institutions, and foreign public entities or governmental institutions.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- For-profit entities
- Lack of a clear U.S. element in the proposal
- Failure to demonstrate long-term sustainability
- Not following submission instructions
- Missing the June 15, 2026 deadline
What You May Need
- Completed proposal following the Annual Program Statement
- Proof of non-profit status (if applicable)
- Detailed project plan with measurable impact
- Budget outline
- Letters of support or partnership agreements
- Documentation of past programming experience
- Clear definition of roles if sub-contracting
- Contact information for key personnel
- Timeline for project implementation
- Evaluation plan for project outcomes
Cautions
- Ensure proposals include a U.S. element
- Follow all instructions in the Annual Program Statement
- Proposals must be submitted by email with the correct subject line
- Sub-contracting requires clear role definitions
- Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is beneficial
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include registered not-for-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society/non-governmental organizations, individuals, non-profit or governmental educational institutions, and foreign public entities or governmental institutions. For-profit entities are not eligible. Proposals must demonstrate long-term sustainability and include a U.S. element.
Overview
This grant is for Bulgarian, European, or U.S.-based organizations and individuals with experience in executing programs. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society/non-governmental organizations, individuals, non-profit or governmental educational institutions, and foreign public entities or governmental institutions.
Likely Disqualifiers
- For-profit entities
- Lack of a clear U.S. element in the proposal
- Failure to demonstrate long-term sustainability
- Not following submission instructions
- Missing the June 15, 2026 deadline
Use of Funds
Funds can be used for projects that promote U.S.-Bulgarian cooperation in areas like education, innovation, security, and economic growth. This includes activities such as educational exchanges, cultural programs, and initiatives that highlight American achievements and foster long-term partnerships.
Expected Awards
10
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Apr 14, 2026
- Deadline
- Jun 15, 2026(2 days)
- Archive Date
- Jul 15, 2026
Application Checklist
- Read the Annual Program Statement thoroughly
- Prepare a detailed project proposal
- Include a clear U.S. element in your proposal
- Demonstrate long-term sustainability
- Gather necessary supporting documents
- Submit proposal to SofiaGrants@state.gov
- Use 'FY26 APS' in the email subject line
- Ensure submission by June 15, 2026