The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is offering the Smith-Lever Special Needs Competitive Grants Program (SLSNCGP) to support the Cooperative Extension System in enhancing disaster preparedness and response through educational initiatives. This program aims to fund projects that implement applied scientific programs addressing public needs during local or regional emergencies, with a total funding pool of $459,000 available for grants ranging from $10,000 to $115,000. Eligible applicants include 1862 Land-grant Institutions, which must provide a 100% matching contribution from non-federal sources, and proposals should focus on at least one of the specified Topical Areas while promoting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). Applications are due by February 13, 2025, and interested parties can direct inquiries to NIFA Support via email at grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov.