Funding-Limited Submission – U.S. Department of State (DOS) – Ngwang Choephel Fellows Program; May 3, 2012

Focusing on the theme of Economic Empowerment, the FY 2012 Ngwang Choephel Program offers Tibetans living in the Tibetan Autonomous Region or Tibetan areas of China opportunities to increase their professional business and managerial skills, generate new business ventures, and provide increased employment opportunities within their communities.  The Economic Empowerment theme will focus on owners of small and/or family businesses, business professionals, social entrepreneurs, community leaders, and educators interested in practical application of business and management theory, learning best practices in creating, managing, and growing small businesses, and utilizing economic tools to enhance their immediate communities.  Proposals should focus on conditions that allow for and promote economic growth and increased participation in the global economy as well as promote sustainable and inclusive community economic development.  Proposed projects must be two-way exchanges involving both U.S. and foreign participants and should take place over a two-year period. 

The award amount for this program is anticipated to be roughly $279,000.  Applicants are encouraged to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding.

Further information can be found at:

http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=164453

An organization may submit only one (1) proposal under this competition.

Because the Department of State only allows an organization to submit one application, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process.  Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at vpr@email.uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Thursday, May 3, 2012:

· Names and departments of UK Project Director and key personnel

· A short description (1-2 pages) of the kinds of activities that will be offered during the exchange

· If cost sharing is offered, a budget with match and potential sources of funding for that match. Note:  Because of ongoing commitments, the Office of the Vice President for Research is unable to provide matching funds.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation.  The Dept. of State deadline is May 25, 2012.  Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).