Federal Funding Opportunity Template- USDA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program
OPPORTUNITY:
Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) is America’s flagship competitive grants program that provides funding for fundamental and applied research, education, and extension projects in the food and agricultural sciences.
DESCRIPTION: NIFA requests applications for the six AFRI priority areas through the Foundational and Applied Science Program for 2023-2024. The goal of this program is to invest in agricultural production research, education, and extension projects for more sustainable, productive, and economically-viable plant and animal production systems. The global agricultural output needs to be expanded significantly to meet the food needs of the population expected in 2050; thus, it is imperative to develop innovative, safe, and sustainable management strategies for livestock (including poultry and aquaculture species), crops, and critical underlying resources. Applications that address climate change, food and nutrition security, expanding markets for producers, indigenous traditional ecological knowledge, and equity for underserved producers are welcome. Also welcome are applications that incorporate virtual learning options, where appropriate and practical for integrated programs.
In 2023, applications are sought in the following priority areas:
- Plant health and production and plant products
- Animal health and production and animal products
- Food safety, nutrition, and health
- Bioenergy, natural resources, and the environment
- Agriculture systems and technology
- Agriculture economics and rural communities
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS:
Eligibility is linked to the project type as specified in the RFA: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2023-02/FY23-AFRI-FAS-RFA-508_0.pdf.
MATCHING FUNDS:
Applicants MUST provide matching contributions on a dollar-for-dollar basis for all Federal funds awarded under AFRI for applied research grants or equipment grants unless a waiver applies.
FUNDING AVAILABLE AND APPLICATION WINDOW:
FUNDING AVAILABILITY: $300 million
APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 29, 2023. Some program areas or program area priorities require a Letter of Intent (LOI). Deadlines for LOI depend on the program area or program area priority applicants applies under.
