Opportunity Information: Apply for 72011420RFA00001
USAID/Georgia announced an advance notice for a forthcoming request for applications tied to a planned cooperative agreement called the Information Integrity Program in Georgia (Funding Opportunity Number 72011420RFA00001, CFDA 98.001). The notice itself was not the formal solicitation and did not allow for proposal submissions at that stage. Instead, USAID invited stakeholders to review a draft program description and submit up to two pages of comments by April 13, 2020, via email to mchelidze@usaid.gov. USAID emphasized that providing comments would not create any competitive advantage later, that submitted materials would not be returned, and that organizations should avoid sending proprietary or sensitive information because USAID could use the input for its own planning purposes.
At a high level, the program is designed to strengthen the integrity of Georgia's information environment and help society withstand disinformation and propaganda campaigns. USAID frames the central challenge as both technical and social: disinformation affects attitudes and can shape real-world behavior, so effective responses need to be coordinated, evidence-based, and capable of adapting as tactics evolve. The program therefore aims to bring together civil society, media, and other relevant actors to improve how the country diagnoses, tracks, and responds to disinformation, while also improving the quality and reach of fact-based messaging.
The activity is built around two core objectives. The first objective, "Build the Community," focuses on creating a platform that helps stakeholders coordinate their efforts so they are not working in isolation or duplicating work. This includes networking and convening a broad and diverse group of actors, encouraging collaboration across civil society organizations and media, and also improving coordination between civil society, media, government counterparts, and donors. A specific emphasis is placed on ensuring participation beyond Tbilisi, reflecting a concern that information integrity work can become overly capital-centric and miss audiences in regions where vulnerability to manipulative narratives may be different or higher.
The second objective, "Strengthen capacity," focuses on making local actors more capable and effective in practical terms. That includes building the ability to diagnose disinformation patterns, monitor and track narratives, and respond with credible, fact-based content. USAID signals that success depends on moving beyond ad hoc reactions toward more systematic approaches that combine research, communications expertise, and measurable results. The program is meant to help local partners both understand the problem more precisely and improve the tools and techniques used to counter it.
A defining feature of the planned program is a strong research, learning, and innovation component described as a "Learning Lab" approach. In practice, this means USAID expects a platform that can generate data about the nature, scale, and impact of disinformation and then use that evidence to shape interventions. Because counter-disinformation programming is described as relatively new and highly experimental, the activity is intended to support creativity, testing, applied research, and scaling of initiatives that show promise. This learning model also extends beyond Georgia: applicants are expected to propose opportunities for regional partnerships with neighboring countries facing similar disinformation challenges, with the idea that lessons learned should circulate through a regional community of practice.
USAID also lays out several lessons learned that hint at the types of methods and outputs the program would value. These include using data-driven approaches to measure not just exposure or attitude change but also behavioral effects; developing better tools and measurement systems to identify vulnerable audiences and tailor messages that resonate; creating proactive, creative communications that connect Georgia's democratic history to its future; improving shared indicators and metrics so efforts can be compared and performance can be tracked; increasing public understanding of what disinformation is and how it works; and supporting experimentation that can be evaluated and expanded when it proves effective.
In terms of funding structure and basic parameters, the opportunity is categorized as discretionary and anticipates a cooperative agreement, which typically implies substantial involvement by the funder during implementation compared to a standard grant. The award ceiling listed is $7,500,000, with an expectation of one award. Eligibility is described as unrestricted (open to any type of entity), subject to any additional clarifications that would appear in the eventual full solicitation. Overall, the opportunity signals a single, relatively large program intended to function as both a coordination hub and an innovation engine for information integrity work in Georgia, grounded in research and designed to strengthen collaboration, capacity, and societal resilience.Apply for 72011420RFA00001
- The Agency for International Development, Georgia USAID-Tbilisi in the other (see text field entitled explanation of other category of funding activity for clarification) sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Information Integrity Program in Georgia" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 98.001.
- This funding opportunity was created on Apr 02, 2020.
- Applicants must submit their applications by Apr 13, 2020. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $7,500,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 1 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity above), subject to any clarification in text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility.
[Watch] Creating a grant proposal using the step-by-step wizard inside the applicant portal:
FAQs: USAID/Georgia Information Integrity Program in Georgia (Advance Notice)
1) What is this announcement?
This was an advance notice from USAID/Georgia about a forthcoming Request for Applications (RFA) for a planned cooperative agreement called the Information Integrity Program in Georgia. The Funding Opportunity Number is 72011420RFA00001 and the CFDA listing is 98.001.
2) Was this the official solicitation?
No. The notice was not the formal solicitation. It did not open a period for submitting applications or proposals.
3) Could organizations submit a proposal at the time of the advance notice?
No. USAID did not accept proposals or applications at that stage. The only requested submissions were comments on a draft program description.
4) What did USAID ask stakeholders to do?
USAID invited stakeholders to review a draft program description and submit written comments.
5) What was the deadline for submitting comments?
Comments were due by April 13, 2020.
6) How were comments supposed to be submitted?
Comments were to be emailed to mchelidze@usaid.gov.
7) Was there a page limit for comments?
Yes. USAID requested up to two pages of comments.
8) Would submitting comments provide an advantage in a future competition?
No. USAID explicitly stated that providing comments would not create any competitive advantage later.
9) Would submitted comments or materials be returned?
No. USAID stated that submitted materials would not be returned.
10) Should organizations include proprietary or sensitive information in their comments?
No. USAID advised organizations not to submit proprietary or sensitive information, noting that USAID could use the input for its own planning purposes.
11) What is the overall purpose of the planned Information Integrity Program in Georgia?
The program is intended to strengthen the integrity of Georgia's information environment and help society withstand disinformation and propaganda campaigns.
12) How does USAID describe the core challenge the program is addressing?
USAID frames the challenge as both technical and social: disinformation can change attitudes and shape real-world behavior, so responses should be coordinated, evidence-based, and able to adapt as disinformation tactics evolve.
13) Who is the program expected to bring together?
The program is designed to bring together civil society, media, and other relevant actors to improve how disinformation is diagnosed, tracked, and countered, while also improving the quality and reach of fact-based messaging.
14) What are the two core objectives described in the program?
The planned activity is organized around two objectives: (1) Build the Community and (2) Strengthen capacity.
15) What does "Build the Community" mean in this program?
"Build the Community" focuses on creating a platform to coordinate stakeholder efforts so organizations are not working in isolation or duplicating work. It includes networking and convening a broad and diverse set of actors and encouraging collaboration across civil society and media.
16) Does the "Build the Community" objective include coordination with government and donors?
Yes. The draft description emphasizes improving coordination between civil society, media, government counterparts, and donors.
17) Is there an emphasis on involving regions outside Tbilisi?
Yes. USAID highlights the importance of participation beyond Tbilisi to avoid capital-centric approaches and to better reach and understand regional audiences that may face different or higher vulnerability to manipulative narratives.
18) What does "Strengthen capacity" cover?
"Strengthen capacity" focuses on improving the practical ability of local actors to diagnose disinformation patterns, monitor and track narratives, and respond with credible, fact-based content.
19) What kind of approach does USAID want for countering disinformation?
USAID signals a preference for systematic approaches rather than ad hoc reactions, combining research, communications expertise, and measurable results.
20) What is the "Learning Lab" approach mentioned in the draft description?
A defining feature is a research, learning, and innovation component described as a "Learning Lab." USAID expects a platform that generates data about the nature, scale, and impact of disinformation and uses that evidence to shape and improve interventions.
21) Why is innovation emphasized in this planned activity?
USAID describes counter-disinformation programming as relatively new and highly experimental. The activity is intended to support creativity, testing, applied research, and scaling initiatives that show promise.
22) Is the program expected to connect beyond Georgia?
Yes. Applicants are expected to propose opportunities for regional partnerships with neighboring countries facing similar disinformation challenges, with lessons shared through a regional community of practice.
23) What kinds of methods and outputs does USAID suggest it values (based on lessons learned)?
The notice points to data-driven approaches and improved measurement systems, including: measuring behavioral effects (not only exposure or attitude change), identifying vulnerable audiences and tailoring messages, producing proactive and creative communications that connect Georgia's democratic history to its future, developing shared indicators and metrics to compare efforts and track performance, increasing public understanding of disinformation, and supporting experimentation that can be evaluated and expanded when effective.
24) What type of award is anticipated?
USAID anticipates a cooperative agreement.
25) What does a cooperative agreement imply in this context?
The notice explains that a cooperative agreement typically implies substantial involvement by the funder during implementation compared to a standard grant.
26) What is the anticipated funding ceiling?
The award ceiling listed is $7,500,000.
27) How many awards does USAID expect to make?
The notice indicates an expectation of one award.
28) Is this opportunity considered discretionary?
Yes. The opportunity is categorized as discretionary.
29) Who is eligible to apply based on the advance notice?
Eligibility is described as unrestricted (open to any type of entity), subject to any additional clarifications in the eventual full solicitation.
30) What is the intended role of the program within Georgia's information integrity ecosystem?
Overall, it is described as a single, relatively large program intended to function as both a coordination hub and an innovation engine, grounded in research and designed to strengthen collaboration, capacity, and societal resilience to disinformation.
Browse more opportunities from the same category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification)
Next opportunity: GRPL CESU: Acoustic Monitoring of Bats in Northern Great Plains Parks
Previous opportunity: DoD Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes, Clinical Research Award
Applicant Portal:
Are you interested in learning about about how to apply for this government funding opportunity? You can create a free applicant account and receive instant access to our applicant portal that many business owners like you have benefited from.
Apply for 72011420RFA00001
Applicants also applied for:
Applicants who have applied for this opportunity (72011420RFA00001) also looked into and applied for these:
| Funding Opportunity |
|---|
| Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Engagement (SCALE) Apply for 72062020RFA00005 Funding Number: 72062020RFA00005 Agency: Agency for International Development, Nigeria USAID-Abuja Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $33,000,000 |
| FY 2020 Book Translation Program Call for Proposals Apply for STATE BISHKEK PAS 20 0004 Funding Number: STATE BISHKEK PAS 20 0004 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Kyrgyzstan Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $20,000 |
| Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSP) Apply for DHS 20 DAD 024 00 01 Funding Number: DHS 20 DAD 024 00 01 Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Department of Homeland Security - FEMA Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $125,000,000 |
| 2020 TIP Office International Programs to Combat Child Trafficking in Mongolia Apply for SFOP0006715 Funding Number: SFOP0006715 Agency: Department of State, Office to Monitor-Combat Trafficking in Persons Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $5,000,000 |
| ECC Counter-Iran Activities: Proliferation-UNSCR Enforcement Apply for SFOP0006742 Funding Number: SFOP0006742 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of International Security-Nonproliferation Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $9,000,000 |
| Think Tank Capacity Building Apply for SFOP0006744 Funding Number: SFOP0006744 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $800,000 |
| Strategic Trade Control Experts Apply for SFOP0006746 Funding Number: SFOP0006746 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of International Security-Nonproliferation Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $4,000,000 |
| Building Resistance to Intolerant Ideologies in Education Systems in Uganda Apply for SFOP0006738 Funding Number: SFOP0006738 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of Conflict Stabilization Operations Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $780,125 |
| Cultural Documentation of Stacked Rock Ceremonial Features at Crater Lake National Park Apply for P20AS00052 Funding Number: P20AS00052 Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $256,050 |
| FY 2020 Young Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative (YTILI) Professional Fellows Program Apply for SFOP0006678 Funding Number: SFOP0006678 Agency: Department of State, Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $1,050,000 |
| Exchange Program for Female Scholars (Ulemas) Apply for SCAISB 20 AW 009 04062020 Funding Number: SCAISB 20 AW 009 04062020 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Pakistan Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $50,000 |
| Countering DPRK Proliferation and Sanctions Evasion Apply for SFOP0006752 Funding Number: SFOP0006752 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of International Security-Nonproliferation Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $1,500,000 |
| Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development: National Tribal Broadband Grant (NTBG) Feasibility Study Funding Apply for BIA IEED 2020 Funding Number: BIA IEED 2020 Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $50,000 |
| Continued Civil Society Engagement - Government Strengthening Apply for SCS 800 20GR 001 WHA 040620 Funding Number: SCS 800 20GR 001 WHA 040620 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to Costa Rica Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $250,000 |
| Security and Strategic Trade Management Academy (SSTMA) Apply for SFOP0006758 Funding Number: SFOP0006758 Agency: Department of State, Bureau of International Security-Nonproliferation Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $1,200,000 |
| 2020/2021 EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program Apply for DOS CPT 202001 Funding Number: DOS CPT 202001 Agency: Department of State, U.S. Mission to South Africa Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $90,000 |
| 9/11 Memorial Act Grant Program Apply for P20AS00055 Funding Number: P20AS00055 Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $400,000 |
| FY 2020 Global Undergraduate Exchange Program in Pakistan Apply for SFOP0006714 Funding Number: SFOP0006714 Agency: Department of State, Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $4,022,247 |
| FY 2020 Study of the U.S. Institute for Student Leaders from Pakistan on Comparative Public Policymaking Apply for SFOP0006672 Funding Number: SFOP0006672 Agency: Department of State, Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: $400,000 |
| Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Apply for DHS 19 GPD 083 000 99 Funding Number: DHS 19 GPD 083 000 99 Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Department of Homeland Security - FEMA Category: Other (see text field entitled Explanation of Other Category of Funding Activity for clarification) Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
Grant application guides and resources
It is always free to apply for government grants. However the process may be very complex depending on the funding opportunity you are applying for. Let us help you!
Apply for Grants
Inside Our Applicants Portal
Access Applicants Portal
- Grants Repository - Access current and historic funding opportunities with ease. Thousands of funding opportunities are published every week. We can help you sort through the database and find the eligible ones to apply for.
- Applicant Video Guides - The grant application process can be challenging to follow. We can help you with intuitive video guides to speed up the process and eliminate errors in submissions.
- Grant Proposal Wizard - We have developed a network of private funding organizations and investors across the United States. We can reach out and submit your proposal to these contacts to maximize your chances of getting the funding you need.
Premium leads for funding administrators, grant writers, and loan issuers
Thousands of people visit our website for their funding needs every day. When a user creates a grant proposal and files for submission, we pass the information on to funding administrators, grant writers, and government loan issuers.
If you manage government grant programs, provide grant writing services, or issue personal or government loans, we can help you reach your audience.
Learn More
Request more information:
Would you like to learn more about this funding opportunity, similar opportunities to "72011420RFA00001", eligibility, application service, and/or application tips? Submit an inquiry below:
Don't forget to subscribe to our grant alerts mailing list to receive weekly alerts on new and updated grant funding opportunities like this one in your email.