Promoting Security and Accountability in Panama

The U.S. Embassy Panama announces a Notification of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to promote security and accountability in Panama with up to $1,500,000 in FY 2015 Economic Support Funds for a project period between 18-24 months; however, the Embassy will consider award periods of up to 3 years for exceptional proposals on a case-by-case basis. The anticipated start date for this activity is September 30, 2016. The U.S. Embassy Panama anticipates funding up to ten awards as a result of this NOFO. This funding will support United States government objectives under the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI). Within Central America (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama), the United States works with partner nations to strengthen institutions to counter the effects of organized crime, uphold the rule of law, and protect human rights. Institution building is coupled with prevention projects that dissuade at-risk youth from turning to crime and gangs and community policing projects that engage local communities on citizen security issues. This funding will 1) support the strengthening of civil society and democracy through projects that educate Panamanian law students to understand and use Panama’s new accusatory justice system, 2) strengthen the rule of law and aid the development of Panamanian government institutions through projects that develop juvenile rehabilitation programs and crime prevention programs, or 3) provide job skills training and facilitate economic opportunities for underserved youth and at-risk communities as an alternative to illegal activities. Projects may focus on one or more of the objectives and must fulfill at least one sub-objective of the corresponding objectives. U.S. Embassy Panama reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for the award. The authority for this NOFO is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended. Eligible organizations interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and evaluation process. For further information, please contact: PanamaGrants@state.gov