The America for Bulgaria Foundation (ABF) is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonpolitical American grant-making foundation working in partnership with Bulgarians to strengthen the country’s private sector and related democratic institutions.

ABF builds on the success of the Bulgarian-American Enterprise Fund, an investment fund created in 1991 by the U.S. Congress with support from the U.S. Agency for International Development. Working with Bulgarian entrepreneurs, the Fund generated an 800 percent return and in 2008 endowed ABF with more than $400 million. ABF started operations in Bulgaria in 2009 and each year distributes about 20 million dollars out of its endowment. The Foundation’s endowment is invested so that ABF works as a perpetual foundation in its four key areas of interest:

• Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology 
• Developing and Retaining Human Capital
• Business Enabling Environment
• Cultural Heritage and Nature Tourism

We partner with companies, institutions, communities, non-governmental organizations and visionary leaders that champion economic freedom, entrepreneurship and rule of law as the essential building blocks for a thriving economy and democracy.

Yet, we are not merely a sponsor or a funding mechanism. Our grant-making process presumes collaborative planning between ABF and its grantees since we understand that common solutions best lead to sustainable change. We also encourage partnership and synergy among our grantees.

ABF accepts proposals throughout the year through our Apply for Funding Page. We also solicit proposals through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process. Active RFPs will be posted on our Request for Proposals Page. We also proactively approach organizations that are independently identified by our staff and initiate projects ourselves.

The Foundation seeks to enhance the longstanding legacy of goodwill and friendship between the American and Bulgarian people. Through its grants and programs, ABF represents the generous spirit of the American people and embodies the highest standards of U.S. ethical conduct, transparency, and core values.

If you want to learn more about us and our work, check the FAQ section.