Project Background, Goals, and Objectives

AEIF 2026 projects must clearly advance America First foreign policy principles by demonstrating how alumni-led engagement makes the United States safer, stronger, and more prosperous, while celebrating Freedom250 and American excellence.

Priority will be given to projects that deliver tangible benefits to U.S. interests, elevate U.S. leadership, reinforce the United States as Burma’s partner of choice, and focus on one of the priority areas outlined below.

Priority Areas:

1. Artificial Intelligence, Digital Innovation, and Workforce Competitiveness: Projects that strengthen job-relevant skills, productivity, and workforce readiness through responsible, applied use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, while explicitly highlighting U.S. leadership and models in AI innovation, STEM education, ethical technology development, and private-sector-driven digital growth. Projects should emphasize practical applications of AI that enhance economic competitiveness, efficiency, and innovation, and reinforce the United States’ position as the global leader in advanced technologies.
2. Security and Protection from Transnational Threats: Projects that counter online scams, cyber fraud, illicit finance, and related transnational threats through prevention-focused education and public awareness, demonstrating U.S. leadership in technology and cybersecurity.
3. Applied Education and Human Capital for National Development: Projects that improve practical education, skills training, or research collaboration in key sectors that support economic growth and stability, while highlighting U.S. leadership in innovation and research.
4. Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Market-Based Growth: Projects that promote innovation and small business development by helping individuals build practical business and innovation skills, reflecting the strength and competitiveness of the U.S. economy.

Additionally, projects must clearly articulate how activities and messaging:

• Promote positive perceptions of the United States and American excellence.

• Advance U.S. economic, security, or strategic interests.

• Contribute to long-term partnerships that benefit the United States.

Project Audience: Primary beneficiaries of AEIF 2026 projects may include, but are not limited to:

• Emerging leaders across Burma seeking to expand professional collaboration and leadership impact;

• Youth and early-career professionals developing workforce, digital, entrepreneurial, or technical skills aligned with economic growth sectors;

• Educators, entrepreneurs, civil society professionals, or public and private sector practitioners engaged in innovation, applied education, or digital security initiatives.

Target audiences may vary depending on project design but should clearly identify geographic reach, professional background, and demographic characteristics relevant to project objectives.

Project Goal: AEIF is designed to increase the impact of the U.S. government’s investment in exchange participants and programs by helping alumni implement projects that support U.S. policy objectives and promote shared strategic interests

Project Objectives: All AEIF projects must support at least one of the following objectives:

Objective 1) Convene alumni from different exchange programs to build or expand an alumni network capable of working together on common interests and increasing regional and global collaboration of alumni.

Objective 2) Strengthen the relationship between alumni and the U.S. government to work together on activities that address U.S. strategic interests.

Objective 3) Support alumni in developing their leadership and project management capacities.

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