Applications are now open for the Austrian-American Partnership Fund (AAPF) to support collaboration and dialogue between Austrian and U.S. NGOs, NPOs, academic institutions, schools, professional associations, and arts and cultural organizations.
The goals of the AAPF are to expand educational, cultural, and professional cooperation between Austrians and Americans, particularly with youth.
Focus Areas
The Austrian-American Partnership Fund accepts applications for funding for projects in the following areas:
Global Issues: Fostering dialogue and discussion on issues of mutual concern and interest, such as energy, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA), media literacy and cybersecurity, trade and economic policy, entrepreneurship and innovation, countering violent extremism, human rights, and transatlantic cooperation.
Climate & Environment: Supporting common environmental concerns such as combating climate change, preserving nature, and limited natural resources, ensuring water security, reducing harmful environmental pressures, promoting resilience, and combating wildlife trade.
Study of the U.S.: Creating capacities in the field of U.S. studies abroad and widening promotion of the Austrian overall understanding of the United States of America, including educational exchanges. Promoting study of the U.S. and encouraging increased understanding of the United States among Austrian youth by way of new and creative projects using experiential learning and innovative techniques.
Arts America: Presenting emerging American musicians, writers, filmmakers and other artists whose works have not previously been shown in Austria or who have not yet performed in Austria.
Funding Information
While requests for support typically range between $1,000 to $10,000, the maximum embassy support is $25,000 total. Co-sponsoring from additional funding sources will be an asset.
Eligibility Criteria
The Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy in Vienna is seeking projects that support collaboration and dialogue between Austrian and U.S. NGOs, NPOs, academic institutions, schools, professional associations, and arts and cultural organizations as well as academics and other professionally qualified individuals. Applicants must demonstrate a proven level of expertise and an ability to work with American counterparts in developing or further expanding exchange in the areas of education, work and culture, and in promoting dialogue and partnership between the United States and Austria. Organizations that have not previously received sponsorship from the U.S. Embassy are especially encouraged to apply.
Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
The project proposal falls within one of the categories: Global Issues, Climate & Environment, Study of the U.S., Arts America.
The project budget is well organized, detailed, and reasonable, and does not include budget items for “miscellaneous expenses” or requests for funding food, alcoholic beverages, or entertainment. Project proposals missing a clear and detailed budget will not be considered.
The project proposal demonstrates that the Austrian and American individuals and/or organizations have the necessary expertise, competence, and capacity to implement the project.
The project makes a substantial contribution to deepening partnerships between Austrian and American individuals, organizations, and institutions.
The project theme and its implementation are innovative, proposed project activities are concrete and detailed, and accompanied by a work plan.
The project clearly states how applicants will evaluate and measure output and results during the project implementation period by way of quantitative and qualitative assessment tools.
Ineligible
The following types of projects will not be funded:
Applications from organizations and individuals that do not meet the above criteria for eligibility.
Projects related to party political activities, humanitarian or charitable activities.
Conferences outside of Austria and personal trips abroad.
Commercial activities.
Fundraising and fundraising events.
Commercial projects.
Conducting or publishing scientific research.
Projects primarily serving the institutional development of the organization applying.
