Alfalfa Seed and Alfalfa Forage Systems
Grant Opportunity Analysis
USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture is funding the Alfalfa Seed and Alfalfa Forage Systems program to support improved alfalfa seed and forage production systems, practices, and supporting technologies. The program seeks integrated research and extension projects that raise yield and forage quality, improve harvest and storage, estimate forage yield and quality, identify new uses for alfalfa, and strengthen insect, disease, and weed management. Projects are expected to involve regional or national coordination, with multi-state participation, and the opportunity requires a dollar-for-dollar match, although waivers may be available. Applications are due June 12, 2026, with approximately $3.7 million available and awards averaging $300,000 per year for up to three years; application questions may be sent to grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov.
Eligible Applicants
Applicants for the ASAFS must meet all the requirements discussed in this NOFO. Failure to meet the eligibility criteria by the application deadline may result in exclusion from consideration or preclude NIFA from making an award. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s About Grants provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process. Applications for ASAFS may only be submitted by: (1) State Agricultural Experiment Stations; (2) Colleges and universities; (3) University research foundations; (4) Other research institutions and organizations; (5) Federal agencies; (6) National laboratories; (7) Private organizations, foundations or corporations; (8) Individuals who are United States citizens or nationals; or (9) A group consisting of two or more of the entities described in (1) through (8). Award recipients may subcontract to organizations not eligible to apply provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the project.