2026 American Film Showcase
Sponsor: US ECAInternal Deadline: 05/15/2026Institutional Submission Limit: 1Program Website
The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) intends to award one Cooperative agreement for approximately $1,540,000 to fund the FY 2026 American Film Showcase (AFS), a dynamic and adaptable initiative that combines and harnesses the power of cultural and commercial diplomacy to elevate American creativity as a driver of global influence and economic vitality. By highlighting U.S. leadership in film, television, gaming, and media arts, AFS opens new markets for American creative industries, attracts foreign investment, and reinforces the nation’s reputation as a global center for innovation and storytelling.
U.S. embassies play a key collaborative role by identifying and submitting program ideas and nominating participants, allowing AFS to deliver tailored engagements, such as lectures, masterclasses, residencies, screenings, and workshops, led by top industry professionals. This flexible model not only advances U.S. foreign policy but also strengthens American global business and creative competitiveness and cultural influence by forging connections between U.S. and international entertainment professionals, creating lasting commercial and professional opportunities for American creatives.
Finally, the FY 2026 AFS award will also include Made in America: Creative Capital, an expansion component designed to further amplify program impact. This 5 initiative will broaden activities by incorporating a commercial diplomacy focus, featuring activities such as business residencies, co-production labs, a Creative IP & Licensing Exchange, creative showcases, export-ready labs, global creative business accelerators, international fellowships, investment forums, and market access and distribution workshops. These activities will help equip an estimated 40-50 U.S. creators to succeed in international markets and forge long-term commercial partnerships. By integrating cultural initiatives with commercial strategy, Made in America: Creative Capital positions the United States as the premier destination for creative investment, fueling job creation, innovation, and sustained economic growth. Together, these efforts ensure that American public diplomacy remains agile and effective, advancing national prosperity and global influence through the transformative power of creativity.
* Only one proposal will be considered by ECA from each applicant organization.
Submission Process
Limited submissions MUST be coordinated with the Office of the Vice President for Research.
If interested in applying for this opportunity, please combine the following items into a single PDF and email to resdev@mailbox.sc.edu by 5pm on the INTERNAL DEADLINE above:
- Cover page with grant program name & number (if applicable) to which you are applying, your project title, PI (name, department/unit, & email), and list of co-PIs/key collaborators (name & department/unit)
- a two-page project abstract addressing key components/criteria for this specific grant program
- a 2-3 page CV/biosketch for the PI (SCiENcv preferred)