Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Q: What is the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition?
Q: How can my organization become a member?
Q: As an individual, can I still become a member?
Q: What is the USGLC doing now? How do I find out when national or local actions are planned?
Q: If I sign up to be on the USGLC list, will my information be given out to other organizations?
Q: There is not a USGLC Steering Committee in my state and I am interested in starting one. How do I do that?
Questions About the International Affairs Budget
Q: What is the International Affairs Budget? Why does it matter to me?
Q: How much does the United States spend on international programs?
Q: What types of programs are funded by the International Affairs Budget?
Q: How can I help support the International Affairs Budget?
General Questions
Q: What is the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition
A: The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) is a broad-based influential network of 400 businesses and NGOs; national security and foreign policy experts; and business, faith-based, academic and community leaders in all 50 states who support a smart power approach of elevating diplomacy and development alongside defense in order to build a better, safer world.
Members of the USGLC engage policymakers in the nation’s capital and educate the public around the country to build support for these essential programs.
Q: How can my organization become a member?
A: To become a member of the USGLC please contact us for additional information.
Our membership consists of more than 400 businesses, non-governmental organizations and other organizations that support the USGLC and are dedicated to increasing our investment in the U.S. International Affairs Budget.
Our General Members receive access to Administration officials at USGLC events and regular updates on the budget and appropriations processes. They are also invited to participate in meetings with Members of Congress and attend numerous networking events with other like-minded businesses and organizations.
Q: As an individual, can I still become a member?
A: Yes. You can become a Supporter of the USGLC. Our supporters make up a nationwide network of thousands of individuals who are committed to building broad support for the essential programs funded by the U.S. International Affairs Budget.
Our supporters receive regular updates about the U.S. International Affairs Budget and Action Alerts with key information about how to engage Members of Congress at crucial times during the budget and appropriations process. In addition, supporters are also invited to participate in local USGLC activities and events. Join online or contact Matt Nugen for additional information.
Q: What is the USGLC doing now? How do I find out when national or local actions are planned?
A: To find out what we are up to around the country, you can sign up for our e-alerts. Both regional and Washington, D.C. events are also frequently updated here.
Q: If I sign up to be on the USGLC list, will my information be given out to other organizations?
A: No. The information we collect will not be shared with any outside party. We use the information provided to keep in touch with you and help you to reach out to your Members of Congress at critical times during the budget and appropriations process.
Q: There is not a USGLC Steering Committee in my state and I am interested in starting one. How do I do that?
A: To inquire about starting a statewide Steering Committee or hosting a local event with the USGLC, please contact Matt Nugen.
Questions About the International Affairs Budget
Q: What is the International Affairs Budget? Why does it matter to me?
A: The International Affairs Budget is a component of the U.S. Federal Budget that funds America’s global economic, diplomatic, and humanitarian initiatives. Often referred to as the “150 Account” in federal budget language, the International Affairs Budget includes programs that cover a breadth of U.S. State Department activities and other international efforts that promote global stability and provide for the security and well-being of all Americans.
The International Affairs Budget provides America with the fundamental tools to meet the global challenges of the 21st century and is critical to ensuring our national security, building economic prosperity, and strengthening humanitarian values.
Q: How much does the United States spend on international programs?
A: For a little more than one percent of the total U.S. Federal Budget, the International Affairs Budget supports numerous programs around the globe. The FY 2008 International Affairs Budget totals $34.3 billion and provides the U.S. with invaluable opportunities to generate much needed allies, partners and friends.
See the USGLC’s Budget Updates for the most up to date information on the International Affairs Budget.
Q: What types of programs are funded by the International Affairs Budget?
A: The International Affairs Budget funds America’s global economic, diplomatic, and humanitarian initiatives. These programs build markets for U.S. exports, provide for U.S. embassy personnel and security, and promote good governance practices that strengthen democracies. They also facilitate the formation of international coalitions, fund essential nonproliferation and anti-terrorism efforts, respond to global challenges such as hunger and illiteracy, and help people build a future of hope and opportunity.
Q: How can I help support the International Affairs Budget?
A: You can show your support for the International Affairs Budget by sending a letter to your Members of Congress urging them to support America’s diplomatic and development initiatives around the globe. You can also sign-up for regular email updates to receive Action Alerts, learn about developments with the International Affairs Budget and receive information about USGLC advocacy events and activities around the country.
