The FY 2026 Leaders Lead On-Demand program is a grant opportunity from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. It funds projects that create exchange programs for emerging leaders and mid-level professionals from around the world. These projects involve both U.S. and foreign participants and aim to build networks of professionals in various fields. The grant will support 4 to 6 exchange projects, with a total of 150 participants.
Who it's for: This grant is for organizations that can design and implement exchange programs for emerging leaders and mid-level professionals. Eligible applicants include public and state institutions of higher education, Native American tribal organizations, and other unrestricted entities.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- For-profit organizations
- Individuals
- Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status
- Entities unable to conduct international exchanges
- Organizations without relevant expertise
What You May Need
- Detailed project proposal
- Budget plan
- Proof of eligibility
- Organizational capacity statement
- Partnership agreements
- Participant recruitment plan
- Evaluation plan
- Letters of support
- Registration in SAM.gov
- DUNS number
- Proof of past experience with similar projects
Cautions
- Ensure all projects include both U.S. and overseas segments
- Participants must have relevant experience or expertise