U.S. Embassy Cairo Announces 2026 Cultural Property Implementation Grants for Egypt

Deadline: 10-Feb-2026 The Cultural Property Agreement Implementation Grants from the U.S. Embassy in Cairo support initiatives that protect Egypt’s cultural heritage from looting, theft, trafficking, and other security threats. Grants range from $25,000 to $150,000 and fund projects that strengthen site security, improve documentation, build institutional capacity, and engage communities. Eligible applicants include NGOs, museums, educational institutions, and ministries of culture with demonstrated experience in cultural property protection. Overview The Cultural Property Agreement Implementation Grants, administered by the U.S. Embassy in Cairo, provide funding to initiatives that protect Egypt’s cultural property. The program leverages the bilateral cultural property agreement between the United States and Egypt to prevent looting, theft, and trafficking of cultural objects, while promoting legal and educational exchanges. This initiative strengthens international cooperation and builds practical, sustainable strategies for cultural property protection. Program Objectives Funded projects aim to: Prevent looting, theft, and trafficking of cultural property Protect American collectors from acquiring looted or trafficked items Disrupt criminal and terrorist financing networks Encourage legal sharing of cultural property for scientific, educational, and cultural purposes Build best practices and capacity through training and technical support Support inventories of cultural objects and sites Enhance site security and protection Promote public education and outreach to prevent crimes against heritage Eligible Activities Projects may include: Strengthening institutional cooperation under the U.S.–Egypt Cultural Property Agreement Improving documentation, record keeping, and cataloging of cultural objects Enhancing security measures at sites, museums, and collections Conducting training programs for staff and stakeholders Raising public awareness about the importance of cultural heritage protection Funding Details Grant range: $25,000 – $150,000 Number of projects funded: Limited, subject to availability of funds Projects must adhere to international standards for cultural property protection Funding is intended for practical, sustainable, and replicable interventions Who is Eligible? Eligible applicants include: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) Museums and cultural institutions Educational institutions, including U.S.-based entities Government ministries of culture or antiquities Other reputable, non-commercial entities with proven capacity to manage cultural property protection projects Ineligible applicants: Individuals Commercial or for-profit entities Past award recipients who have not fulfilled prior obligations Additional Requirements: Implementing partners must be registered and active in the U.S. government’s System for Award Management (SAM) to receive federal assistance Why This Program Matters The grants support the protection of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage by: Reducing looting, theft, and trafficking of cultural property Enhancing site and collection security Strengthening international collaboration and compliance with U.S.–Egypt agreements Engaging communities in heritage preservation and crime prevention Supporting sustainable practices that benefit future generations How to Apply Applicants should: Be registered and active in SAM if receiving U.S. federal funds Prepare a project proposal outlining objectives, activities, budget, and expected impact Demonstrate capacity and experience in cultural property protection Align project design with international standards and the bilateral agreement’s goals Submit applications according to U.S. Embassy Cairo guidance Conclusion The Cultural Property Agreement Implementation Grants offer a critical opportunity for NGOs, museums, educational institutions, and governmental partners to strengthen the protection of Egypt’s cultural heritage. By funding initiatives that prevent looting and trafficking, enhance security, and engage communities, the program helps ensure the long-term preservation and legal management of cultural assets.