Since 2013, ECA has become a leader in developing and applying new program models, practices, and technologies in the field of virtual exchange. Virtual and blended virtual/in-person exchange programming models have become more sophisticated and better adapted to accomplishing public diplomacy and other foreign policy goals. The Virtual Exchange Toolkit contains examples of best practices and guidance in the design, implementation, and evaluation of virtual and blended exchange programs. Examples of recent ECA virtual and blended exchange pilot programs are also described below.

A Conversation That Blossomed Into a Collaboration
The “Entrelazando Experiencias” event created networking opportunities for 400 exchange alumni from 9 Latin American countries.
coins
Virtual Workshop Trains U.S. Law Enforcement to Combat Trafficking in Ancient Coins
Nearly 100 participants included reps from universities, museums, and coin associations.
The Escola Municipal Minas Gerais Science Club performed plays, put on demonstrations and even designed board games to promote awareness of mosquito-borne diseases and their prevention
Crowd-sourcing Diplomacy
Middle school children may seem like unlikely ambassadors, and even less likely global health advocates. However, an international, collaborative interagency initiative, called the Zika Education and Prevention Project, is empowering school children around the world to combat disease outbreaks.
Communities and Youth for Promoting Hip Hop, Empowerment, and Resiliency (CYPHER) Launches
On September 16, 2019, ECA launched its first year-long, multi-office pilot program entitled Communities and Youth for Promoting Hip Hop, Empowerment, and Resiliency (CYPHER), led by ECA’s innovation team, the Collaboratory.
Stevens Initiative
Stevens Initiative Announces New Grants to Support Virtual Exchange Programs Domestically and Abroad
Today, the Stevens Initiative, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, announced six new grants to schools and organizations to implement virtual exchange programs for students at educational institutions ranging from middle school through the university level.
Rome Robotics
Building Bridges by Building Telescopes
Through the Virtual Communities Connect initiative, the ECA Collaboratory funded a series of pilot projects that allowed U.S. Embassies around the world to develop meaningful virtual programming with American communities and institutions that help advance American foreign policy goals.