English Access Microscholarship Program for Central and Southern Iraq

The U.S. Embassy Baghdad Public Diplomacy Section is running an open competition for a single grant worth between $450,000 and $500,000 to implement the English Access Microscholarship Program across Central and Southern Iraq. The winning organization will deliver English-language instruction to Iraqi youth, a core part of Mission Iraq's broader goals. For young Iraqis, English skills open doors to higher education, jobs, exchange programs, and engagement with the wider world. The program targets teenagers and young adults who would not otherwise have access to English training. Grantees typically run after-school classes, intensive sessions, and cultural activities that go beyond grammar drills. The curriculum often includes U.S. culture, civic values, and leadership skills, so students gain more than language ability. They build confidence and a network of peers with similar ambitions. The U.S. Embassy Baghdad Public Diplomacy Section manages public engagement and cultural exchange efforts across Iraq. It works to strengthen ties between Americans and Iraqis through educational programs, alumni networks, and media outreach. This grant is one piece of that mission, and the embassy will likely stay closely involved in monitoring progress and outcomes. Iraq's operating environment is challenging. Security varies by region, and organizations need local knowledge and strong partnerships to work effectively. Central and Southern Iraq includes major cities like Baghdad, Basra, and Najaf, each with distinct dynamics. Any applicant needs a proven track record of delivering programs in the country or active partnerships with local groups that can navigate the logistics.