Description
The U.S. Embassy Riyadh Public Diplomacy Section seeks a partner organization to administer a cooperative agreement that will connect emerging Saudi AI talent with U.S. experts through a structured exchange program. The awardee will design and execute three program phases: a virtual and in‑person preparation period (April 2027), a two‑week U.S. exchange tour (July 2027), and a follow‑on summit in Saudi Arabia (January 2028). The partner must develop budget scenarios for 12, 16 (primary), and 20 participants and manage recruitment, virtual hackathon, mentorship matching, travel logistics, and post‑exchange coaching. Eligible applicants include non‑profit NGOs, universities, public international organizations, and governmental institutions. Funding is expected between $150,000 and $250,000.
• Target audience: Saudi nationals, ages 20‑30, studying or working in AI‑related fields.
• Required deliverables: application portal, recruiting campaign, virtual hackathon, leadership training, two‑week U.S. site visits, mentor pairing, three‑month virtual coaching, Saudi showcase summit.
• Budget scenarios for 12, 16, and 20 participants must be submitted.
• Eligible prime applicants: non‑profit, educational, or governmental entities (U.S. or foreign).
• Estimated award ceiling: $250,000; floor: $150,000.
• Timeline: Open 7/26/26 – Close 9/8/26; program execution April 2027 – Jan 2028.