Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Education and Workforce Development
ID: 353006Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA)

Award Range

$22K - $750K

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Agriculture

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is inviting applications for the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) Competitive Grants Program focused on Education and Workforce Development (EWD). This program aims to enhance agricultural education and workforce training by supporting projects that provide professional development for K-14 educators, non-formal education for youth, workforce training at community colleges, and fellowships for predoctoral and postdoctoral scholars. With an estimated total funding of approximately $49 million and a range of award amounts from $22,000 to $750,000, NIFA expects to make around 245 awards. Interested applicants must submit their proposals by December 5, 2024, and can direct any questions regarding the application process to grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov.

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    Title
    Posted
    The Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) Education and Workforce Development (EWD) program for FY 2024 is seeking applications for a total funding of approximately $49 million. This program aims to enhance agricultural education and workforce training through strategic projects for K-14 educational professionals, community colleges, and undergraduate students, among others. The application deadlines vary by program area, with key proposals including professional development, training at community colleges, non-formal education for youth, and fellowships for predoctoral and postdoctoral scholars. AFRI emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, encouraging applicants from underserved communities and minority-serving institutions. The program additionally calls for strong networks and partnerships to address challenges in food and agricultural sciences. Proposals must align with one or more of the six priority areas mandated by the AFRI, including food safety, plant and animal health, and rural community development. Each program area solicits specific grant types, such as Standard Grants and Food and Agricultural Science Enhancement (FASE) Grants, with defined budget guidelines for participant support and project management. The overarching objective is to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped to tackle contemporary agricultural challenges and promote sustainable practices in the sector.
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