Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program
This grant funds research, education, and extension projects in six priority areas to advance science and innovation in agriculture, food, and rural communities.
Funder: National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA)
Due Dates: December 31, 2026 (final deadline for this cycle)
Funding Amounts: Awards range from $10,000 to $10,000,000; total program funding estimated at $300 million
Summary: Supports research, education, and extension projects in six priority areas to advance fundamental and applied agricultural sciences.
Key Information: Eligibility varies by project type; see RFA for details. No cost sharing/match required except for equipment/commodity-specific grants.
Description
The Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) Foundational and Applied Science Program is the USDA's flagship competitive grants program supporting research, education, and extension activities in agriculture. The program aims to advance knowledge in both fundamental and applied sciences critical to U.S. agriculture, food security, rural economies, and environmental stewardship. Proposals are solicited in six priority areas:
- Plant Health and Production and Plant Products
- Animal Health and Production and Animal Products
- Food Safety, Nutrition, and Health
- Bioenergy, Natural Resources, and Environment
- Agriculture Systems and Technology
- Agriculture Economics and Rural Communities
Projects can be research-only, extension-only, or integrated (research, education, and/or extension). The program funds a broad range of project types, from basic science to applied research and community engagement.
