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The U.S. Department of State’s Public Diplomacy Section in Nairobi has announced the Freedom 250 Tech and Innovation Exchange, a major funding opportunity to strengthen U.S.–Kenya collaboration in science, technology, and engineering fields.

The program focuses on embedding rising scientists and engineers in American-led tech and business ecosystems, advancing the dominance of U.S. universities and innovation in Kenya's tech sector, and building a prestigious brand to honor America’s 250th anniversary while strengthening bilateral ties and promoting American commercial interests.

This initiative, launched in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, aims to deepen partnerships between U.S. and Kenyan universities and position Kenya as a strategic hub for technological collaboration. Recognized as the “Silicon Savannah,” Kenya has become a regional leader in innovation, with Nairobi hosting major global technology companies and fostering a rapidly growing ICT sector.

The program will support 76 Kenyan undergraduate students aged 18 to 26 in science, technology, engineering, and innovation fields. These students will undertake a semester-long academic experience at U.S. universities, designed to immerse them in American education systems and innovation ecosystems. Following their academic placement, participants will return to Kenya to complete externships with American companies operating in the country, strengthening their understanding of U.S. business practices and economic priorities in Africa.

Through this structure, the initiative aims to cultivate a cohort of pro-American Kenyan leaders who will contribute to stronger economic cooperation, increased collaboration with U.S. institutions, and enhanced engagement with American businesses in Africa. The program also seeks to establish long-term institutional partnerships between universities in both countries, particularly in strategic sectors such as information technology, artificial intelligence, health innovation, and critical minerals development.

The funding opportunity offers a total of $3.3 million, subject to availability of funds, and will support one award under a cooperative agreement with substantial involvement from the U.S. Embassy in Kenya. The project performance period is up to 36 months, with an anticipated start date of October 1, 2026. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, and for-profit exchange management organizations where permitted. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not mandatory.

Eligibility

Applicants will be responsible for program administration, participant recruitment, coordination with academic and commercial partners, and overall program delivery, while the U.S. Embassy will play a key role in participant selection, program oversight, branding, and strategic alignment with U.S. government priorities.

Post Date: April 15, 2026