Preventing Iranian Proxy and ISIS Activities Along Iraq’s Western Border
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations working on counterterrorism and border security capacity-building in Iraq. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, think tanks, NGOs, educational institutions (public and private), for-profit organizations (if allowed by appropriation), and public international organizations. This is a cooperative agreement, so applicants must be prepared for U.S. government partnership and oversight. Activities must focus on strengthening Iraqi civilian law enforcement capabilities to counter terrorist threats along Iraq's western border.
The program prioritizes sustainable capacity-building and train-the-trainer models to reduce long-term U.S. resource dependency. Applicants should demonstrate expertise in border security, counterterrorism operations, or law enforcement training. The grant supports Iraq's ability to investigate terrorist attacks and prevent weapons and explosives smuggling. U.S. government partnership and monitoring are required for all funded activities.
This grant is for organizations working on counterterrorism and border security capacity-building in Iraq. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, think tanks, NGOs, educational institutions (public and private), for-profit organizations (if allowed by appropriation), and public international organizations. This is a cooperative agreement, so applicants must be prepared for U.S. government partnership and oversight. Activities must focus on strengthening Iraqi civilian law enforcement capabilities to counter terrorist threats along Iraq's western border.
The program prioritizes sustainable capacity-building and train-the-trainer models to reduce long-term U.S. resource dependency. Applicants should demonstrate expertise in border security, counterterrorism operations, or law enforcement training. The grant supports Iraq's ability to investigate terrorist attacks and prevent weapons and explosives smuggling. U.S. government partnership and monitoring are required for all funded activities.
Program description
The Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism (CT) announces this funding opportunity to strengthen Iraq’s ability to investigate and respond to terrorist attacks and incursions along the Iraq-Syria border during a critical period of regional transition. This program should deliver concrete returns for American taxpayers by reducing threats to U.S. diplomatic and military facilities, safeguarding American commercial operations, and preventing terrorist attacks that endanger Americans abroad.
The proliferation of Iran-aligned militia groups (IAMGs) and continued presence of ISIS in the region have created a fragile security environment with elevated risks of border exploitation for weapons, explosives, and human smuggling. Porous borders enable IAMGs and other terrorist organizations to move personnel, material, and illicit goods that directly threaten U.S. personnel, American commercial interests, and regional stability affecting U.S. security.
Recent events illustrate the ongoing threat from IAMGs, who attacked numerous U.S. personnel and facilities in Erbil and Baghdad since February 28. They have historically conducted rocket and drone attacks on U.S. diplomatic facilities, military installations, and commercial facilities. By supporting Iraq’s border security capabilities, this program reduces terrorist operational capacity that threatens U.S. interests.
This program should be designed to reduce Iraq’s long-term dependency on U.S. taxpayer resources by building sustainable Iraqi civilian law enforcement capabilities to independently respond to attacks and dismantle illicit transit networks. Consistent with the 2025 National Security Strategy (NSS)’s principle of “burden-sharing and burden-shifting,” this program should include a train-the-trainer component to enable Iraqi civilian forces to establish an Iraqi-owned training capability, reducing long-term U.S. resource commitments.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for organizations working on counterterrorism and border security capacity-building in Iraq. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, think tanks, NGOs, educational institutions (public and private), for-profit organizations (if allowed by appropriation), and public international organizations. This is a cooperative agreement, so applicants must be prepared for U.S. government partnership and oversight. Activities must focus on strengthening Iraqi civilian law enforcement capabilities to counter terrorist threats along Iraq's western border.
The program prioritizes sustainable capacity-building and train-the-trainer models to reduce long-term U.S. resource dependency. Applicants should demonstrate expertise in border security, counterterrorism operations, or law enforcement training. The grant supports Iraq's ability to investigate terrorist attacks and prevent weapons and explosives smuggling. U.S. government partnership and monitoring are required for all funded activities.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance)
- Project Narrative/Statement of Work
- Budget and Budget Narrative
- Organizational Capacity Documentation
- Security/Counterterrorism Expertise Documentation
Program contact
- 👤 Bureau of Counterterrorism
- 📞 703-516-1684
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 19.701 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$22,988,485
-
$12,475,819
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$11,840,645
-
$11,692,024
-
$11,167,474
-
$11,074,555
-
$10,221,242
-
$7,749,000
-
$7,198,208
-
$7,095,687
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
Nonprofits, think tanks, NGOs, educational institutions (public and private), for-profit organizations (if allowed by appropriation), and public international organizations can apply. You must have relevant expertise in counterterrorism or border security operations.
What is the funding amount?
This is a fixed award of $6,808,090 with no cost-sharing requirement.
What must the project accomplish?
Projects must strengthen Iraqi civilian law enforcement capacity to counter terrorist threats along Iraq-Syria border areas. Include train-the-trainer components to build sustainable Iraqi-owned capabilities.
Is this a cooperative agreement or a grant?
This is a cooperative agreement, meaning the Department of State will be actively involved in project oversight and partnership throughout implementation.
What is the deadline?
The deadline is June 8, 2026. This is a fixed deadline with no rolling option.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus on sustainable capacity-building that reduces long-term U.S. dependence on resources. The government wants Iraqi civilian institutions to become self-sufficient trainers.
- Emphasize how your work protects U.S. personnel, diplomatic facilities, and commercial interests. Frame all activities in terms of direct U.S. security benefits.
- Include a detailed train-the-trainer component. Show how you will equip Iraqi trainers to continue the work independently after U.S. support ends.
- Demonstrate expertise in border security operations and counterterrorism response, not just general security consulting. Specify experience with cross-border threats or weapons interdiction.
- Plan for close government partnership from day one. This is a cooperative agreement, so build in regular reporting, monitoring, and U.S. government collaboration mechanisms.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Proposals that lack a clear train-the-trainer strategy or plan for Iraqi institutional sustainability. Not explicitly connecting project outcomes to U.S. national security interests or protection of American personnel. Underestimating the level of U.S. government oversight and coordination required in a cooperative agreement model.
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