Smith-Lever Special Needs Competitive Grants Program
This grant funds innovative educational projects that help communities prepare for and respond to natural, human-made, or technological disasters.
Funder: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Due Dates: June 1, 2026
Funding Amounts: $20,000–$115,000 per award; approx. $459,564 total program funding; 5 awards expected; 100% match required
Summary: Supports innovative, education-based approaches to disaster preparedness and response for communities via 1862 Land-grant Institutions.
Key Information: Only 1862 Land-grant Institutions are eligible; cost sharing/matching is required.
Description
This program supports the development and implementation of innovative, education-based projects that enhance disaster preparedness and response at the community level. Funded projects should address natural, human-made, or technological disasters or threats, and focus on risk communication, educational outreach, and building community resilience. The program is designed to leverage the Cooperative Extension System to deliver science-based information and resources before, during, and after emergencies.
