Watch out our recent Live Q&A Session with Successful PUAN Grantees from the Previous Cycle, an interactive opportunity to learn directly from alumni who have successfully secured and implemented PUAN grants. The session aimed to inspire and guide potential applicants for the PUAN Grants Program 2026 by sharing practical insights from alumni who have successfully designed and implemented PUAN-funded projects. During the session, previous grantees discussed their projects, share lessons learned, and offer practical tips to help applicants prepare strong proposals. Participants also gained a better understanding of the different sections of the PUAN Grants application and learn strategies for implementing impactful projects successfully.
What the Session Focused On
The discussion focussed on several key areas, including:
- * Brief overviews of individual PUAN-funded projects
- * Guidance on understanding and completing different sections of the PUAN Grants application
- * Tips from past grantees on writing a competitive grant proposal
- * Practical techniques for implementing projects effectively and achieving measurable outcomes
The session also included a live Q&A segment, allowing alumni to ask questions directly and receive guidance from experienced grantees.
Empowering Alumni-Led Impact
Jointly administered by the U.S. Mission to Pakistan and PUAN, in collaboration with the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), the PUAN Grants Program supports initiatives led by alumni of U.S. Government–funded exchange programs.
The program encourages alumni to apply the knowledge, skills, and perspectives gained through their exchange experiences in the United States to address challenges and create meaningful impact within Pakistan. Through competitive grant funding, PUAN seeks to strengthen mutual understanding, advance U.S.–Pakistan cooperation, and position alumni as leaders, innovators, and connectors within their communities and professional sectors.
Grant Funding Opportunities
The PUAN Grants Program 2026 offers two funding tracks:
Special Themes Grants
- * Maximum grant amount: PKR 1,500,000
- * Eligible applicants: PUAN alumni
- * Target beneficiaries: Communities, institutions, professional sectors, or broader audiences
Projects under this category must align with one of the predefined 2026 PUAN Grant Themes and demonstrate measurable outcomes and broader impact.
PUAN Connects: Chapter Alumni Engagement
- * Maximum grant amount: PKR 250,000
- * Eligible applicants: PUAN alumni
- * Target beneficiaries: PUAN alumni within a single chapter
These grants support alumni-only engagement activities that strengthen alumni networks and encourage collaboration at the local level.
2026 PUAN Grant Themes
Applicants must select one theme and design a project aligned with its objectives:
- * Economic Reform, Trade & Investment Readiness
- * Workforce Readiness for Trade, Technology & Investment
- * Economic Narratives & Public Understanding
- * Free Expression, Open Information & Digital Innovation
- * Freedom 250 – Community-Based Innovation & U.S. Best Practices
Detailed descriptions of each theme and sample project ideas are available on the PUAN website.
Application Process and Deadline
All proposals must be submitted through the online application system.
Submission Deadline: March 13, 2026, at 02:00 PM
PUAN encourages all eligible alumni to apply and contribute their expertise, leadership, and innovation toward Pakistan’s development and stronger U.S.–Pakistan ties.
Alumni interested in applying are encouraged to join the live session to learn from successful grantees and get their questions answered.
For more details about the PUAN Grants Program, eligibility criteria, and application guidelines, visit:
https://puan.pk/grants/
