Countering Terrorist Recruitment Online

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Counterterrorism, is seeking proposals under solicitation DFOP0018502 to develop and implement programs that counter the online recruitment activities of U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations, including jihadist networks, drug cartels, and individual extremists, who are increasingly leveraging digital platforms and generative artificial intelligence to radicalize and mobilize global audiences. This cooperative agreement, funded by $4,933,399 in FY25/26 NADR funds under the Foreign Assistance Act, aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities globally by promoting the adoption of U.S.-approved investigative, intelligence, and legal standards to dismantle terrorist networks and prosecute their members. Proposals must align with four core outcomes: adopting U.S. counterterrorism standards, protecting U.S. citizens through strengthened investigations, implementing U.S. legal frameworks for prosecution, and enhancing protection through targeted judicial actions. Programs must be designed for global implementation with a timeline of 2 to 3 years, beginning no later than September 30, 2026, and must include a detailed logic model, a performance monitoring plan with at least three SMART counterterrorism indicators, and a theory of change that clearly links activities to measurable outputs and outcomes. Applicants must submit mandatory forms including SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B, along with a 12-page proposal, a detailed budget justification narrative, budget templates, a CT Logic Model, a CT Performance Monitoring Plan, CVs of key personnel, letters of support from partners, and a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement if applicable. All applicants, regardless of location, must possess a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain an active registration in SAM.gov prior to application and throughout the award period. Budgets must be submitted in U.S. dollars and include distinct categories for equipment, supplies, contractual services, other direct costs, and indirect costs, with all subaward costs listed under the Contractual line item. Evaluation is conducted through a merit-based review process with weighted scoring across six factors: program quality and feasibility (30 points), organizational capacity (20 points), program planning (15 points), monitoring and evaluation (15 points), budget efficiency (10 points), and sustainability (10 points). Proposals must demonstrate how activities will de-conflict with other donors, engage host governments, and include contingency plans for implementation delays. Final approval rests with the Department of State Grants Officer, and recipients must