The Middle East Regional Cooperation (MERC) Program funds joint scientific research projects between the U.S., Israel, and countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). It supports applied research that addresses regional challenges and promotes U.S. interests. Projects must involve collaboration between Israeli and MENA organizations and can include U.S. participants. The focus is on projects with clear application potential and benefits for all involved.
Who it's for: This grant is for organizations interested in conducting applied scientific research that involves collaboration between Israel and at least one MENA country. U.S. organizations can also participate if they provide technical expertise or help connect research to markets.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Lack of collaboration with Israeli and MENA organizations
- Proposals focused solely on basic research without application potential
- Projects that do not align with U.S. interests or priorities
- Inability to demonstrate a clear plan for scaling and using results
What You May Need
- Detailed project proposal
- Partnership agreements with Israeli and MENA organizations
- Budget plan
- Plan for application and commercialization of research
- Documentation of U.S. organization involvement, if applicable
- Evidence of how the project aligns with U.S. and regional priorities
- Timeline for project implementation
Cautions
- Ensure collaboration with eligible partners in Israel and MENA
- Focus on applied research with clear outcomes
- Align project goals with U.S. strategic interests
- Prepare a comprehensive plan for scaling and commercializing results
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants are unrestricted, meaning any organization can apply. However, projects must involve collaboration between Israeli and MENA organizations, and U.S. participation is encouraged if it adds value to the project.
Overview
This grant is for organizations interested in conducting applied scientific research that involves collaboration between Israel and at least one MENA country. U.S. organizations can also participate if they provide technical expertise or help connect research to markets.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Lack of collaboration with Israeli and MENA organizations
- Proposals focused solely on basic research without application potential
- Projects that do not align with U.S. interests or priorities
- Inability to demonstrate a clear plan for scaling and using results
Use of Funds
Funds can be used for conducting applied research, facilitating collaboration between U.S., Israeli, and MENA organizations, and supporting the commercialization and scaling of research results.
Total Program Funding
$10,000,000
Expected Awards
7
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Jul 6, 2026
- Deadline
- Sep 30, 2026(85 days)
Application Checklist
- Confirm eligibility of all partner organizations
- Develop a detailed project proposal
- Secure partnership agreements with Israeli and MENA organizations
- Prepare a comprehensive budget plan
- Outline a clear plan for application and commercialization
- Document U.S. organization involvement, if applicable
- Align project with U.S. and regional priorities