Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Strengthening Agricultural Systems

USDA-NIFA Posted USDA-NIFA-AFRI-011677

Description

The long-term goal of the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative - Strengthening Agricultural Systems (SAS) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is to help transform the U.S. food and agricultural system to increase agricultural production while enhancing farmer prosperity. Achieving this goal will require transdisciplinary approaches to address current and future food and agricultural challenges within the context of the economic viability of farm operations, quality of life for farmers and society as a whole, and the most efficient use of resources. NIFA is soliciting applications to support: 1. At least one of the following Strengthening Agricultural Systems sub-priorities: a. New Uses and Expanding Markets for Agriculture and Forestry Products b. Solutions to Pests and Diseases of Plants or Animals c. Combating Food and Diet-Related Chronic Diseases 2. Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Food and Agricultural Sciences *See AFRI SAS NOFO for each program area specific application due date.

Eligibility

1. Integrated ProjectsEligible applicants for Integrated Projects include: a) Colleges and universities;b) 1994 Land-grant Institutions; andc) Hispanic-serving agricultural colleges and universities (see NIFA's Hispanic-Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities page).For item a) under Integrated Projects, the terms ""college"" and ""university"" means an educational institution in any state which i) admits as regular students only persons having a certificate of graduation from a school providing secondary education, or the recognized equivalent of such a certificate; ii) is legally authorized to provide a program of education beyond secondary education; iii) provides an educational program for which a bachelor’s degree or any other higher degree is awarded; iv) is a public or other nonprofit institution; and v) is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association. A research foundation maintained by a college or university is eligible to receive an award under this program.2. Food and Agricultural Science Enhancement GrantsPart II § C.2 of this NOFO contains the eligibility details for FASE Grants. Note that under FASE program, Strengthening Coordinated Agricultural Project Grants are solicited in this NOFO.
Funding Details
Award Floor
$1,000,000.00
Award Ceiling
$10,000,000.00
Total Estimated Funding
$140,000,000.00
Expected Awards
18
Key Dates
Posted
January 29, 2026
Closes
April 23, 2026
Archive Date
April 25, 2026
Agency Information
Agency Name
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Agency Code
USDA-NIFA
Funding Instrument
Other