Higher Education Challenge Grants Program
ID: 351785Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA)

Award Range

$30K - $750K

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Agriculture

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/351785

Additional Information

https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/funding-opportunities/higher-education-challenge-grants-program
Timeline
    Description

    The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is offering the Higher Education Challenge Grants Program (HEC) for FY 2024, aimed at enhancing educational capacities in the food and agricultural sciences at eligible institutions. This program seeks to address critical educational needs through innovative projects that may include curriculum development, instructional delivery, and partnerships between institutions, with a focus on promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Approximately $5,055,342 is available for grants ranging from $30,000 to $750,000, with applications due by March 5, 2024. Interested applicants can find more information and guidelines on the NIFA website or contact NIFA Support for assistance with the application process.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    FY24-HEC-RFA-P.pdf
    The Higher Education Challenge Grants Program (HEC) for FY 2024, initiated by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) of the USDA, aims to strengthen the food and agricultural sciences workforce by enhancing educational capacities at eligible institutions. Approximately $5,055,342 is available, with an application deadline of March 5, 2024. The program encourages diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by inviting applications from a range of organizations, particularly those in underserved communities. Projects funded must address identified educational needs and may cover critical areas including curriculum development, instructional delivery, student recruitment, and the establishment of cooperative initiatives between institutions. The various grant types (Planning Activity, Standard Grant, and Collaborative Grants) have specified funding limits ranging from $30,000 to $750,000, depending on project complexity and partnerships. NIFA emphasizes the importance of effective evaluation, innovative educational practices, and the establishment of lasting impacts within the food and agricultural sciences education landscape. The application process is strictly electronic, with clear guidelines regarding eligibility, format, and evaluation criteria to ensure that proposed projects provide measurable benefits to the community and the sector at large. This initiative aligns with broader USDA priorities, promoting innovative solutions and resilience within the agricultural system.
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