U.S.-Africa Strategic Investment Program
🏛 Bureau of African Affairs
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Aug 18, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations seeking to advance private sector-led economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa. U.S. government agencies, nonprofits, universities, private companies, and public international organizations may apply. Projects must focus on either critical minerals investment or commercial diplomacy acceleration in sub-Saharan Africa. Applicants should demonstrate clear, measurable benefits to one or more sub-Saharan countries and identify pathways for U.S. commercial participation.
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Program description
The U.S.-Africa Strategic Investment Program advances America’s national interests by harnessing market-based, private sector-led growth across two strategic focus areas: Critical Minerals Investment and Commercial Diplomacy Acceleration. This program seeks market-based solutions that strengthen the environment for foreign investment in sub-Saharan Africa through transparent and competitive processes, creating sustainable economic growth in two strategic focus areas. Projects must demonstrate clear, measurable benefits to one or more sub-Saharan countries, such as increased investment from high-quality U.S. and U.S.-aligned companies. Applicants are also encouraged to identify how their projects create conditions that enable U.S. commercial participation.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424
- Project Narrative
- Budget and Budget Narrative
- Statement of Work
- Evidence of Private Sector Partnerships
- Letters of Support from Sub-Saharan Partners
- Organization Capacity Documentation
Program contact
- 👤 Bureau of African Affairs
- 📧 AF-A-Proposals@state.gov
- 📞 202-890-9795
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 19.989 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$4,937,262
-
$2,170,300
-
$1,249,997
-
$1,183,800
-
$986,500
-
$986,500
-
$943,063
-
$837,651
-
$494,950
-
$493,227
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 19.989). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $28,564,288 | |
| 2025 | $1,249,997 | |
| 2026 est. | $65,700,000 |
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
U.S. government agencies, nonprofits, universities, private companies, and public international organizations can apply. Check the APS for complete eligibility details.
What geographic areas does this fund?
Projects must benefit one or more sub-Saharan African countries. Programs focus on critical minerals and commercial diplomacy.
What types of projects are funded?
Market-based solutions that strengthen foreign investment environments. Projects should enable U.S. commercial participation and create sustainable economic growth.
What is the award range?
Grants range from $5 million to $50 million per award from a $500 million funding pool.
What is the deadline?
The deadline is May 27, 2027. This is a fixed deadline, not rolling.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Demonstrate clear, measurable economic benefits to sub-Saharan Africa. Use concrete data on investment potential or job creation.
- Explain how your project creates conditions for U.S. companies to participate. Show specific pathways for American business involvement.
- Focus on market-based, private sector solutions. Avoid grant-dependent or subsidy-heavy approaches.
- Engage sub-Saharan partners early. Letters of support from host country stakeholders strengthen competitiveness.
- Build a strong team with Africa expertise and commercial sector experience. Show track record in emerging markets investment.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Vague benefit statements without measurable outcomes. Proposals must quantify investment, jobs, or economic gains for African countries. Insufficient focus on U.S. commercial opportunity. Program seeks mutual benefit, not one-sided aid. Weak private sector partnerships. Strong applications involve actual businesses, not just consultants describing potential.
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