The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico announce an open competition for past participants (“alumni”) of U.S. government-funded and U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs to submit applications to the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026 – Mexico.  We seek proposals from teams of at least two alumni who meet all program eligibility requirements outlined below. 

AEIF provides alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs with funding to expand on the skills gained during their exchange experiences and design and implement innovative solutions to address global challenges within their communities. 

All AEIF projects must celebrate and promote the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America (Freedom250) by highlighting American excellence, ingenuity, and shared values. Proposals must clearly demonstrate how the project supports Freedom250 and alignment with current U.S. administration policy goals such as making the United States safer, stronger, and more prosperous, defending freedom of expression, and/or highlighting U.S. innovation, excellence, and positive impact to global culture. 

AEIF proposals must address at least one of the themes listed below. Proposals that do not address the themes as outlined in the program objectives will not be eligible. 

Convene alumni from different exchange programs to build or expand an alumni network capable of working together on common interests and increasing regional and global collaboration of alumni.  Every project proposal should include at least two exchange alumni or the involvement of an alumni association.  

Strengthen the relationship between alumni and the U.S. government to work together on activities that address shared goals and challenges. 

Support alumni as they develop their leadership capacity and implement projects in their communities for maximum impact.  

Projects must address at least one of the following themes:  

1. Celebrate American Excellence (culture, arts, sports, English language learning, STEAM education, or civic engagement)  
2. Promote Regional Safety and Security (youth violence prevention, human trafficking awareness, community resilience, cybersecurity, or rule of law)  
3. Shared Prosperity and Economic Growth (capacity building, entrepreneurship, digital skills, regional economic development, or supply chains)  
4. American Ingenuity and Innovation (emerging technologies, AI, space science, innovation communities, or university-industry partnerships)  
5. Global Partnerships and Collaboration (binational exchanges, international networks, cross-border initiatives, public-private partnerships, or youth leadership)