The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica has announced the opening of the 2026 grants cycle for the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), a program of the U.S. Department of State.

The 2026 grant cycle coincides with two major milestones: the 250th anniversary of American independence and the 25th anniversary of the AFCP program. As part of the national commemoration known as Freedom 250, the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is placing special emphasis on projects that highlight the global contributions of the United States throughout history.

Each AFCP-supported project is intended to underscore the enduring cultural and historical ties between the United States and countries around the world, relationships that have helped shape national identity and shared heritage. Projects should include technical collaboration between American experts and foreign counterparts.

For the 2026 cycle, the AFCP will expand country eligibility. To align with other Freedom 250 activities, the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is accelerating the program calendar and streamlining the application process into a single, full application round. Full implementation of the special Freedom 250 edition of the program is contingent on the availability of funds.

Established in 2001, the AFCP supports projects that demonstrate U.S. leadership in cultural heritage preservation while advancing U.S. foreign policy and public diplomacy objectives. The program has been widely valued by local leaders and communities, including in countries where bilateral relations with the United States may be limited.

Pending funding availability, grant awards for the 2026 cycle are expected to range from $25,000 to $250,000.

Applicants must fully meet the program’s objectives, funding areas, priorities and eligibility requirements as outlined in the application guide. The deadline for submissions is Feb. 27, 2026. All applications must be submitted in English using the required forms and formats.

Applications may be submitted by email to exchangessanjose@state.gov. Additional information is available by calling the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica at (506) 2519-2000.

In related news, U.S. Ambassador Melinda Hildebrand formally assumed her duties recently after presenting her letters of credence to President Rodrigo Chaves.