Opportunity Information: Apply for SFOP0008655
The FY 2022 Creative Arts Exchange (CAE) grant opportunity is a U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) funding program designed to support international, arts-based people-to-people exchanges that advance U.S. foreign policy goals. The core idea is to use artistic collaboration and professional development as a form of cultural diplomacy, strengthening relationships between U.S. communities and partners overseas through creative work. CAE programs are framed around demonstrating the value of creative free expression, reinforcing democratic values globally, and helping communities build more inclusive economic opportunity and prosperity through the arts.
A key feature of CAE is that it is not simply an arts grant for performances or exhibitions in isolation. Instead, it emphasizes exchange and partnership: artists and arts professionals work together across borders, share skills, co-create, and build networks that can continue beyond the period of performance or travel. The opportunity also highlights that these programs are carried out in close coordination with U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, which signals that projects are expected to align with on-the-ground diplomatic priorities and be responsive to local contexts and needs identified by U.S. missions.
For FY 2022, ECA indicated its intent to fund two separate initiatives (pending availability of funds) through cooperative agreements. A cooperative agreement typically means the government expects to be more actively involved than in a standard grant, often through collaboration, guidance, or ongoing coordination during implementation. The total estimated funding across both awards is about $2,780,000, with an award ceiling listed as $1,580,000, and the agency anticipated making two awards in total.
The solicitation is organized around two program themes. Theme 1 is Performing Arts (Center Stage), which generally implies support for exchange programs built around performing arts genres and the professional ecosystems that support them, such as touring, artist-to-artist collaboration, workshops, and industry engagement tied to performance-based work. Theme 2 is Hip-Hop Collaboration (Next Level), which centers on hip-hop as a vehicle for cross-cultural collaboration, professional development, and community engagement. While the notice notes that eligible artistic genres and themes can vary based on ECA strategic priorities, this funding round specifically calls out those two tracks as the focus for awards.
In terms of eligibility, the opportunity is open to a range of organizational applicants, including U.S. public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, private institutions of higher education, and U.S. nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education institutions). The notice also mentions "others" with additional eligibility details referenced elsewhere in the full announcement, which usually means certain categories of organizations may qualify if they meet specific requirements laid out in the NOFO.
Administrative details in the source data show this is a discretionary funding opportunity issued under Funding Opportunity Number SFOP0008655, with the assistance listing tied to CFDA/assistance number 19.415. The opportunity was created on February 24, 2022, and the original application closing date was May 16, 2022. Applicants were directed to consult the NOFO sections on Program Description and Federal Award Information for the full scope, expectations, and funding structure, which typically include required activities, target regions or countries if applicable, deliverables, monitoring and evaluation expectations, and budget guidance.Apply for SFOP0008655
- The Department of State, Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs in the other (see text field entitled explanation of other category of funding activity for clarification) sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "FY 2022 Creative Arts Exchange" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 19.415.
- This funding opportunity was created on Feb 24, 2022.
- Applicants must submit their applications by May 16, 2022. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $1,580,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 2 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Private institutions of higher education, Others (see text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility for clarification).
[Watch] Creating a grant proposal using the step-by-step wizard inside the applicant portal:
Creative Arts Exchange (CAE) FY 2022 - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FY 2022 Creative Arts Exchange (CAE) grant opportunity?
The FY 2022 Creative Arts Exchange (CAE) is a U.S. Department of State program run by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). It supports international, arts-based people-to-people exchange programs that use artistic collaboration and professional development to strengthen relationships between U.S. communities and overseas partners while advancing U.S. foreign policy goals.
What is the main purpose of CAE?
CAE is designed to use cultural diplomacy through the arts. The program emphasizes creative collaboration as a way to strengthen international relationships, demonstrate the value of creative free expression, reinforce democratic values globally, and help communities build more inclusive economic opportunity and prosperity through the arts.
Is CAE meant to fund stand-alone performances or exhibitions?
No. The opportunity specifically emphasizes that CAE is not simply an arts grant for performances or exhibitions in isolation. Projects are expected to focus on exchange and partnership, such as cross-border collaboration, skills sharing, co-creation, professional development, and network-building that can continue beyond the period of travel or performance.
What kinds of activities does CAE emphasize?
Based on the description provided, CAE emphasizes activities tied to international exchange and collaboration, including artist-to-artist collaboration, workshops, professional development, co-creation, and building lasting networks between U.S. communities and international partners. The performing arts theme also implies industry engagement connected to performance ecosystems.
How does CAE relate to U.S. foreign policy?
CAE is explicitly framed as supporting exchanges that advance U.S. foreign policy goals. It does this by strengthening international relationships through arts-based engagement, promoting creative free expression, and reinforcing democratic values through people-to-people connections.
Are projects expected to coordinate with U.S. embassies or consulates?
Yes. The opportunity notes that CAE programs are carried out in close coordination with U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. This signals that projects are expected to align with on-the-ground diplomatic priorities and to be responsive to local contexts and needs identified by U.S. missions.
What does it mean that this opportunity uses cooperative agreements?
ECA indicated it intended to fund the initiatives through cooperative agreements. A cooperative agreement generally means the U.S. government expects to be more actively involved than in a standard grant, often through collaboration, guidance, and/or ongoing coordination during implementation.
How many awards did ECA expect to make under this funding round?
The agency anticipated making two awards in total (pending availability of funds).
What is the estimated total funding available across the awards?
The total estimated funding across both awards is about $2,780,000 (pending availability of funds).
What is the award ceiling listed for this opportunity?
The award ceiling is listed as $1,580,000.
What are the program themes for CAE FY 2022?
The solicitation is organized around two themes: (1) Performing Arts (Center Stage) and (2) Hip-Hop Collaboration (Next Level).
What is Theme 1: Performing Arts (Center Stage)?
Theme 1, Performing Arts (Center Stage), generally implies exchange programs built around performing arts genres and the professional ecosystems that support them. This can include touring, artist-to-artist collaboration, workshops, and industry engagement tied to performance-based work.
What is Theme 2: Hip-Hop Collaboration (Next Level)?
Theme 2, Hip-Hop Collaboration (Next Level), centers on hip-hop as a vehicle for cross-cultural collaboration, professional development, and community engagement.
Are these two themes the focus for awards in this funding round?
Yes. While eligible artistic genres and themes can vary based on ECA strategic priorities, the information provided indicates this specific funding round calls out these two tracks as the focus for awards.
Who is eligible to apply?
The opportunity is open to several types of U.S. organizations, including U.S. public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, private institutions of higher education, and U.S. nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education institutions). The notice also mentions that "others" may be eligible, with additional eligibility details referenced elsewhere in the full announcement.
Does the notice mention any additional eligible applicants beyond universities and 501(c)(3) nonprofits?
Yes. It mentions "others" with additional eligibility details referenced in the full announcement (NOFO). The specific requirements for those additional categories are not included in the provided summary.
What agency is offering this funding opportunity?
This is a U.S. Department of State funding opportunity issued by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).
What is the Funding Opportunity Number for this solicitation?
The Funding Opportunity Number is SFOP0008655.
What is the assistance listing (CFDA) number associated with this opportunity?
The assistance listing number tied to this opportunity is 19.415.
When was the opportunity created?
The opportunity was created on February 24, 2022.
What was the original application closing date?
The original application closing date was May 16, 2022.
Where should applicants look for full scope and requirements?
Applicants were directed to consult the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), especially the sections on Program Description and Federal Award Information. Those sections typically include the full scope, expectations, funding structure, required activities, possible target regions or countries (if applicable), deliverables, monitoring and evaluation expectations, and budget guidance.
Does the summary list required countries or regions for programming?
No. The summary notes that the NOFO typically covers target regions or countries if applicable, but no specific countries or regions are listed in the information provided here.
Is funding guaranteed?
No. ECA indicated its intent to fund two initiatives pending availability of funds, which means the final awards depend on whether funds are available.
What kinds of outcomes is CAE trying to achieve?
Based on the information provided, CAE aims to strengthen international relationships through creative collaboration, promote the value of creative free expression, reinforce democratic values, and support communities in building more inclusive economic opportunity and prosperity through arts-based exchange and professional development.
Browse more opportunities from the same category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification)
Next opportunity: 2022-DRAFT-IFRP-TRANSPORT-RFA-DRAFT
Previous opportunity: Secondary Analyses of Data on the National Incidence of Child Maltreatment
Applicant Portal:
Are you interested in learning about about how to apply for this government funding opportunity? You can create a free applicant account and receive instant access to our applicant portal that many business owners like you have benefited from.
Apply for SFOP0008655
Applicants also applied for:
Applicants who have applied for this opportunity (SFOP0008655) also looked into and applied for these:
| Funding Opportunity |
|---|
| DRL: Supporting a Credible Local Election Environment in Angola Apply for SFOP0008652 Funding Number: SFOP0008652 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $2,500,000 |
| DRL Strengthening Rights of Gig Workers in Colombia and Brazil Apply for SFOP0008656 Funding Number: SFOP0008656 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $1,000,000 |
| Developing the Next Generation of Female Environmentalists Apply for SCAISB 22 AW 023 02282022 Funding Number: SCAISB 22 AW 023 02282022 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Pakistan Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| FY 2022 Arts Envoy Program Apply for SFOP0008662 Funding Number: SFOP0008662 Agency: Department of State, Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $1,800,000 |
| FY 2022 Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program Apply for SFOP0008663 Funding Number: SFOP0008663 Agency: Department of State, Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $16,000,000 |
| DRL Strengthening Respect for Freedom of Expression in Malaysia Apply for SFOP0008661 Funding Number: SFOP0008661 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $740,740 |
| DRL: Combatting Online Gender-Based Violence in the East Asia and Pacific Region Apply for SFOP0008668 Funding Number: SFOP0008668 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $740,740 |
| 22.PMWRA.ToWalkTheEarthInSafetyPublication.NOFO Apply for SFOP0008660 Funding Number: SFOP0008660 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs - WRA Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $100,000 |
| U.S. Embassy Gaborone PAS Annual Program Statement Apply for AFGABO FY22 01 Funding Number: AFGABO FY22 01 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Botswana Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $25,000 |
| The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) Notice of Funding Opportunity for America’s Marine Highway Program Apply for 693JF722R000012 Funding Number: 693JF722R000012 Agency: Department of Transportation, Maritime Administration Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $24,250,000 |
| FY 2022 EDA University Center Competition - ATRO Apply for EDA ATL TA ATRO 2022 2007229 Funding Number: EDA ATL TA ATRO 2022 2007229 Agency: Department of Commerce Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $200,000 |
| FY 2022 EDA University Center Competition - SRO Apply for EDA SEA TA SRO 2022 2007230 Funding Number: EDA SEA TA SRO 2022 2007230 Agency: Department of Commerce Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $200,000 |
| USAID Local Development Organizations Support Program Apply for 72061522RFA00007 Funding Number: 72061522RFA00007 Agency: Agency for International Development, Kenya USAID-Nairobi Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $20,029,992 |
| U.S. Embassy Gaborone PAS Annual Program Statement Apply for AFGAS PAS FY22 01 Funding Number: AFGAS PAS FY22 01 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Botswana Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $25,000 |
| 2022 Media Professionalization Assistance Program Apply for 2022 FY21AEECA PASPODGORICA MEDIA Funding Number: 2022 FY21AEECA PASPODGORICA MEDIA Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Montenegro Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $70,000 |
| Supporting Afghan Media Apply for SCAKAB 22 GR 001 SCA 03022022 Funding Number: SCAKAB 22 GR 001 SCA 03022022 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Afghanistan Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| U.S. Embassy Cairo PAS Annual Program Statement Apply for PAS EGY FY22 01 Funding Number: PAS EGY FY22 01 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Egypt Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| Preserving Afghan Culture, Empowering Women, and Reinforcing Shared Values Apply for SCAKAB 22 GR 002 SCA 03032022 Funding Number: SCAKAB 22 GR 002 SCA 03032022 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Afghanistan Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| 2022 Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Nepal, India Apply for SFOP0008680 Funding Number: SFOP0008680 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Population Refugees and Migration Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $14,500,000 |
| DRL: Laying the Groundwork for Peace in Ethiopia Apply for SFOP0008682 Funding Number: SFOP0008682 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $2,200,000 |
Grant application guides and resources
It is always free to apply for government grants. However the process may be very complex depending on the funding opportunity you are applying for. Let us help you!
Apply for Grants
Inside Our Applicants Portal
Access Applicants Portal
- Grants Repository - Access current and historic funding opportunities with ease. Thousands of funding opportunities are published every week. We can help you sort through the database and find the eligible ones to apply for.
- Applicant Video Guides - The grant application process can be challenging to follow. We can help you with intuitive video guides to speed up the process and eliminate errors in submissions.
- Grant Proposal Wizard - We have developed a network of private funding organizations and investors across the United States. We can reach out and submit your proposal to these contacts to maximize your chances of getting the funding you need.
Premium leads for funding administrators, grant writers, and loan issuers
Thousands of people visit our website for their funding needs every day. When a user creates a grant proposal and files for submission, we pass the information on to funding administrators, grant writers, and government loan issuers.
If you manage government grant programs, provide grant writing services, or issue personal or government loans, we can help you reach your audience.
Learn More
Request more information:
Would you like to learn more about this funding opportunity, similar opportunities to "SFOP0008655", eligibility, application service, and/or application tips? Submit an inquiry below:
Don't forget to subscribe to our grant alerts mailing list to receive weekly alerts on new and updated grant funding opportunities like this one in your email.