Special Research Grants Program for Aquaculture Research
Grant Opportunity Analysis
The National Institute of Food and Agriculture is seeking grant applications for the Special Research Grants Program for Aquaculture Research to support applied research that strengthens the U.S. aquaculture industry. The program funds science-based projects that address industry constraints, including genetics, pest and disease issues, novel technologies to improve farmer profitability, and economic research tied to profitability. Projects are expected to involve the U.S. aquaculture industry, include plans for public dissemination of results, and will be reviewed through administrative screening and scientific peer review, with indirect costs capped at 30% of total federal funds awarded. Applications are due June 15, 2026, and awards are expected to range from $50,000 to $300,000, with approximately $1.813 million available and an estimated six awards. Questions about application preparation may be directed to grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov.
Eligible Applicants
Eligibility Requirements Eligible applicants include: 1. State Agricultural Experiment Stations. 2. Colleges and universities (including junior colleges offering associate degrees or higher). 3. University research foundations. 4. Other research institutions and organizations. 5. Federal agencies. 6. National laboratories. 7. Private organizations or corporations. 8. Individuals who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents. 9. Any group consisting of two or more entities identified in (1) through (8). Eligible institutions do not include foreign and international organizations. USDA will not accept competitive applications for grants and cooperative agreements submitted for dangerous gain-of-function research as defined in Section 8 of E.O. 14292. Duplicate or Multiple Submissions – duplicate or multiple submissions are not allowed. NIFA will disqualify both applications if an applicant (i.e., project director) submits duplicate or multiple submissions.