Specialty Crop Research Initiative
ID: 356314Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA)

Award Range

$50K - $2M

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Agriculture

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Mandatory

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is offering the Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) grant to support critical research and extension projects aimed at addressing significant challenges within the U.S. specialty crop industry. This initiative seeks to fund projects that focus on five key areas, including plant breeding, pest and disease management, production efficiency, technological innovations, and food safety measures. With an estimated total program funding of $75.44 million, the SCRI encourages diverse participation, particularly from underserved communities, and emphasizes collaborative, transdisciplinary approaches to enhance agricultural sustainability. Pre-applications are due by November 8, 2024, and interested applicants can direct inquiries to grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov for further assistance.

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    Title
    Posted
    The Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) Federal Funding Opportunity for Fiscal Year 2025 aims to address critical issues affecting the U.S. specialty crop industry, with an expected availability of $75.44 million. Pre-applications are due by November 8, 2024. The SCRI encourages diverse participation from underserved communities, fostering equity in agricultural research. The program emphasizes transdisciplinary and systems-based approaches, requiring collaboration among various stakeholders to amplify the impact of proposed projects. Funding supports Research and Extension projects, Coordinated Agricultural Projects (CAPs) focusing on multiple system components, and Planning Projects to develop future proposals. Ethical conduct and stakeholder engagement are crucial throughout the project lifecycle. The application process includes a two-phase review to evaluate project relevance and potential impact. The SCRI aligns with USDA’s strategic goals to combat climate change and enhance agriculture's sustainability. Interested applicants must submit a Stakeholder Relevance Statement detailing project significance, stakeholder engagement, and a systems approach to solutions.
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