Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program
Description
The AFRI Foundational and Applied Science Program supports grants in six AFRI priority areas to advance knowledge in both fundamental and applied sciences important to agriculture. The six priority areas are: Plant Health and Production and Plant Products; Animal Health and Production and Animal Products; Food Safety, Nutrition, and Health; Bioenergy, Natural Resources, and Environment; Agriculture Systems and Technology; and Agriculture Economics and Rural Communities. Research-only, extension-only, and integrated research, education and/or extension projects are solicited in this Request for Applications (RFA). See Foundational and Applied Science RFA for specific detail.
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
The AFRI Foundational and Applied Science Program supports grants in six AFRI priority areas to advance knowledge in both fundamental and applied sciences important to agriculture. The six priority areas are: Plant Health and Production and Plant Products; Animal Health and Production and Animal Products; Food Safety, Nutrition, and Health; Bioenergy, Natural Resources, and Environment; Agriculture Systems and Technology; and Agriculture Economics and Rural Communities. Research-only, extension-only, and integrated research, education and/or extension projects are solicited in this Request for Applications (RFA). See Foundational and Applied Science RFA for specific detail.
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $10,000,000
- Award Floor
- $10,000
- Estimated Total Program Funding
- $300,000,000
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from National Institute of Food and Agriculture is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Agriculture are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this National Institute of Food and Agriculture program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/360205).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by National Institute of Food and Agriculture — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
This opportunity closes on December 31, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for agriculture programs such as those from National Institute of Food and Agriculture are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
More Grants from National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program?
This opportunity from National Institute of Food and Agriculture is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Agriculture are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program provide?
Award amounts for Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program range from $10,000 to $10,000,000.
When is the deadline for Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program?
The application deadline for Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program is December 31, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program?
Apply for Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/360205). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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