Grant Opportunity: CPAIG 2026 for Cultural Heritage Protection in Egypt

The U.S. Embassy in Cairo has announced the 2026 Cultural Property Agreement Implementation Grants (CPAIG) program. This initiative offers funding for projects dedicated to protecting Egypt’s cultural heritage from looting, theft, and trafficking, supporting the bilateral agreement between the U.S. and Egypt.

Program Overview

• Goal: Protect Egyptian cultural property against security threats and illegal trafficking while fostering cooperation and best practices in heritage management.

• Funding Range: $25,000 – $150,000 per project.

• Number of Awards: The program expects to fund 3–8 projects worldwide.

Eligible applicants must be reputable, non-commercial entities with the capacity to manage cultural property projects. This includes:

• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

• Museums

• Educational Institutions (including U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations)

• Ministries of Culture and Antiquities

Note: Individuals and commercial/for-profit entities are not eligible.

Eligible Activities & Funding Areas

Projects must adhere to international standards and can focus on:

1. Training & Capacity Building: Workshops on investigation, record keeping, judiciary roles, and collaboration between law enforcement and cultural ministries.

2. Site Security & Protection: Implementing security measures (systems, plans, guard training) for archaeological sites, museums, libraries, and archives.

3. Inventory & Documentation: Creating or updating inventories of collections to prevent theft.

4. Public Education & Outreach: Community engagement through workshops, videos, storytelling, or educational events to raise awareness about heritage protection.

5. Privately/Commercially Owned Property: Preservation or purchase of cultural objects for transfer to public ownership.

The application process consists of two rounds:

• Round 1: Concept Note (Project Ideas)

  • Deadline: February 10, 2026

  • Action: Submit your project idea via the official form.

  • Submission Link: Apply Here

• Round 2: Full Application (Invite Only)

  • Deadline: April 15, 2026

  • Action: Shortlisted applicants from Round 1 will be invited to submit a full proposal with technical details, budget, and key personnel.

🔗 More Information

For the full official announcement and detailed guidelines, visit the U.S. Embassy in Egypt website: Official CPAIG 2026 Program Page