The Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs’ Office of Assistance Coordination of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit a statement of interest (SOI) for innovative foreign assistance programs benefiting partner countries that also advance U.S. commercial diplomacy and put American interests first. SOI must demonstrate how projects will leverage foreign assistance for U.S. partners as a tool of statecraft to advance U.S. economic, security, and diplomatic objectives. Programming should promote trade, not aid, by leveraging assistance resources to champion American enterprise and infrastructure and catalyze private capital through market principles. SOI may address foreign assistance programs for partner countries in sectors including: energy, digital connectivity, emerging technologies (particularly AI and telecommunications), 5G infrastructure, agriculture, regional economic integration, advanced manufacturing, workforce training aligned with U.S. business needs, transitional justice, and economic recovery in conflict-affected areas. Projects should orient implementing partners toward the American business community, and foster burden-sharing. Review country-specific guidance in the sections below and tailor your SOI to address identified priorities. NEA/AC may decide to grant multiple awards, one award, or no awards, subject to funding availability and proposal viability.