The FY 2026 Youth Ambassadors program is a grant opportunity that supports youth leadership exchanges between the U.S. and select countries. These exchanges focus on leadership and may involve creative uses of AI. Organizations can apply to run one or more of eight specific program options, but each requires a separate proposal. The grant can provide between $300,000 and $2,100,000 to successful applicants.
Who it's for: This grant is for organizations such as Native American tribal organizations, nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status, public and state institutions of higher education, and any other unrestricted entities interested in running youth leadership exchange programs.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting a single proposal for multiple program options
- Failing to clearly identify the program option in the Executive Summary
- Not focusing on youth leadership
- Not including U.S. youth and adult mentors in exchanges
- Proposals not involving creative use of AI
What You May Need
- Separate proposals for each program option
- Executive Summary clearly identifying the program option
- Detailed budget proposal
- Plan for U.S. and international youth exchanges
- Outline of AI integration in the program
- Follow-on project plans for participants
- Organizational background and experience
- Letters of support or partnership agreements
- Proof of eligibility (e.g., organizational status documents)
Cautions
- Each program option requires a separate proposal
- Must demonstrate creative use of AI in proposals
- Ensure all proposals are submitted by the deadline
- Clearly identify program option in the Executive Summary
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include Native American tribal organizations, nonprofits that do not have 501(c)(3) status, public and state institutions of higher education, and any other unrestricted entities. This means that a wide range of organizations can apply, as long as they meet the basic criteria outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity.
Overview
This grant is for organizations such as Native American tribal organizations, nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status, public and state institutions of higher education, and any other unrestricted entities interested in running youth leadership exchange programs.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting a single proposal for multiple program options
- Failing to clearly identify the program option in the Executive Summary
- Not focusing on youth leadership
- Not including U.S. youth and adult mentors in exchanges
- Proposals not involving creative use of AI
Use of Funds
Funds can be used to organize and implement youth leadership exchanges, including travel, accommodation, program materials, and activities related to AI integration. They can also support follow-on projects in participants' home communities.
Total Program Funding
$7,954,000
Expected Awards
8
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- May 19, 2026
- Deadline
- Jul 17, 2026(34 days)
- Archive Date
- Aug 16, 2026
Application Checklist
- Read the Notice of Funding Opportunity thoroughly
- Choose the program option(s) you wish to apply for
- Prepare separate proposals for each program option
- Include a clear Executive Summary identifying the program option
- Develop a detailed budget and program plan
- Plan for AI integration in the program
- Gather organizational documents proving eligibility
- Collect letters of support or partnership agreements
- Submit proposals by the application deadline