U.S. Embassy Opens Applications for 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund in Senegal and Guinea-Bissau

The United States Embassy in Senegal has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF), inviting former participants of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs in Senegal and Guinea-Bissau to submit proposals for community-focused projects.

The initiative aims to support alumni-led programs that strengthen ties between local communities and the United States while contributing to the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

According to the embassy, the fund will provide grants ranging from $5,000 to $35,000 to selected projects designed and implemented by teams of alumni from U.S. government exchange programs.

Supporting Alumni-Led Community Projects

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund is part of a global U.S. State Department initiative that empowers alumni of programs such as educational and professional exchanges to apply their skills and experiences in projects that benefit their communities.

Officials say the program encourages collaboration among alumni networks to develop innovative initiatives in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, and community development.

Application Requirements

To qualify, applicants must be teams composed of former participants of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs.
Projects should demonstrate how they will strengthen connections with the United States while contributing to community impact in Senegal or Guinea-Bissau.

Deadline and Information

Applications for the 2026 fund must be submitted no later than April 19, 2026.
Interested alumni can access detailed guidelines and application procedures through the U.S. Embassy website:
https://sn.usembassy.gov/funding-opportunities/

Embassy officials encourage eligible alumni to take advantage of the opportunity to transform their exchange experiences into impactful initiatives that promote collaboration and shared values between the United States and West Africa.