Venezuela Affairs Unit (VAU) PAS Request for Statements of Interest: Annual Program Statement

Overview

<p class="btn btn-gold btn-block">The VAU Public Affairs Section will accept proposals from now through August 7, 2021.</p> <p>The Venezuela Affairs Unit (VAU) of the U.S. Department of State announces a Request for Statements of Interest (RSOI) that strengthens people-to-people ties between the United States and the people of Venezuela through cultural, educational, and media support programs that highlight shared values and promote a peaceful, democratic transition.</p> <p>PAS VAU invites proposals for communications, cultural and educational programs that support democratic initiatives and economic empowerment in Venezuela, highlight shared values, and promote bilateral cooperation. All programs must convey an element of U.S. culture, history, and/or shared values. Competitive proposals should also include a connection with U.S. experts, organizations, or institutions that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives and/or increased cooperation between the people of the United States and Venezuela even after the program has concluded.</p> <p><strong>Priority Program Areas</strong></p> <p><span></span>PAS VAU will prioritize grant proposals that address the following themes:</p> <ul> <li>Cultural Projects: Cultural activities engage the public, especially youth, to bridge cultures, deepen cultural ties and understanding, discuss topics of importance, and promote the free exchange of ideas. The VAU is interested in supporting arts and culture projects that strengthen cultural ties between the United States and Venezuela. Examples of possible programs include writing workshops (including comics), artist collaborations, gaming workshops or programs, theatre/filmmaking/storytelling clubs, dance performances or competitions, or similar events and activities.</li> <li>Supporting freedom of speech and expression, including via civic education.</li> <li>Strengthening independent media through media literacy, training, and other engagement.</li> <li>Ensuring participation of citizens in the democratic process through education and outreach.</li> <li>Economic growth and entrepreneurship, particularly for marginalized women, youth..</li> <li>Supporting grassroots activism that promotes human rights, democratic governance, and/or addresses Venezuelan citizens’.needs due to the man-made humanitarian crisis.</li> <li>Promoting inclusive social development, particularly through empowering women and girls, persons with disabilities, and Afro-Venezuelans.</li> </ul> <p><span>Programs should focus on Venezuelan populations between the ages of 16-35, with a goal of at least 50% of programming taking place outside of Caracas.</span></p>