USDA Grants

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The USDA SBIR/STTR programs offer competitively awarded grants to qualified small businesses to support high-quality research related to important scientific problems and opportunities in agriculture that could lead to significant public benefits. This can include app development for agricultural technology, rural development, and smart farming. Applications must also include an objective to assess the impacts of the proposed project on protecting or enhancing the environment, on climate mitigation or adaptation, or the socio-economic development of rural areas. The program seeks to stimulate technological innovation and increase private sector commercialization among small business concerns.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs - USDA NIFA is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The SBIR/STTR programs at USDA NIFA support research and development that leads to commercialization of innovative technologies. Specific topic areas relevant to forest farming and specialty crops include 'Plant Production and Protection - Biology' which supports enhancing crop production, and 'Management of Natural Resources' which aims to commercialize technologies to manage, monitor, improve, and/or protect natural resources while sustaining farm and forest productivity.

The Agriculture Systems and Technology priority area within USDA's flagship Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) is the dedicated funding home for precision agriculture, robotics, data science, and sensor technology applied to farming systems. Part of the FY2026 AFRI Foundational and Applied Science program making $445.2 million available across six priority tracks. Supports AI-driven crop and soil monitoring using machine learning, remote sensing, satellite imagery, and drone platforms; autonomous harvesting and planting robots; smart sensor networks for pathogen and pest detection; variable-rate application systems for fertilizer, pesticide, and irrigation; and AI decision support tools for farm management. Strongest proposals validate technology in real production environments. Projects integrating research, education, and extension receive preference in review.

AFRI Education and Workforce Development: Food and Agricultural Non-formal Education (FANE) is a grant from USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) supporting non-formal education programs that cultivate interest and skills in food, agriculture, natural resources, and human sciences. Eligible applicants include universities, community organizations, and nonprofits developing programs such as 4-H, extension education, and hands-on agricultural learning experiences. Grants strengthen the pipeline of future agricultural professionals by engaging youth and adult learners outside traditional classroom settings.

The USDA NIFA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) Strengthening Agricultural Systems (SAS) program awards large-scale integrated research, education, and extension projects addressing complex agricultural challenges. USDA anticipates awarding 10-12 grants ranging from $2.5 million to $10 million per award. The program supports projects incorporating AI, machine learning, and data science to strengthen food production, agricultural sustainability, and rural community resilience. Projects may address precision agriculture, autonomous systems, climate-smart farming, supply chain optimization, and workforce development in agricultural technology.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program: Plant Production and Protection (Biology) is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This SBIR program supports high-quality research related to important scientific problems and opportunities in agriculture that could lead to significant public benefits. The Plant Production and Protection (Biology) topic area supports research to enhance crop production and protection through biological approaches, including new methods for plant improvement, pest management, and developing new food and non-food crop plants.

Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Education and Workforce Development – Postdoctoral Fellowships (A7201) is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This program area priority helps to develop new scientists and professionals to enter research, education, and/or extension fields within the food and agricultural sciences within the private sector, government, or academia.

Delta Health Care Service Grant Program is sponsored by USDA – Rural Business-Cooperative Service. Eligible applicants are a consortium/group of three or more entities that are Regional Institutions of Higher Education, Academic Health and Research Institutes, and/or Economic Development Entities, located in the Delta Region, with at least one year of prior experience in addr…

Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) - Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) is sponsored by USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). FMPP funds projects that develop, coordinate, and expand direct producer-to-consumer markets such as farmers markets, roadside stands, agritourism activities, community-supported agriculture programs, or online sales. This includes support for marketing and promotion.

Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. The FMPP funds projects that develop, coordinate, and expand direct producer-to-consumer markets, which can include educational components. While not solely focused on education, projects can incorporate educational initiatives related to healthy eating or agricultural practices.

Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program competition for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026 is sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). This program provides funding to state and Tribal governments to create or enhance programs that encourage private landowners to open their land for public access for hunting, fishing, and other wildlife-dependent recreation. Up to 25% of the funding can be used for wildlife habitat improvement on enrolled lands.

Watershed Rehabilitation Program (REHAB) is sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). This program provides financial and technical assistance to local project sponsors to rehabilitate aging dams originally built through NRCS watershed programs. It supports planning, design, and construction activities that reduce safety risks and extend a dam's useful life.

The USDA Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) 2026 provides $175 million in annual funding for research addressing the needs of the specialty crop industry, with a groundbreaking new $20 million set-aside for mechanization and automation research. For the first time, the SCRI Notice of Funding Opportunity explicitly funds AI-driven automation technologies to help specialty crop growers reduce labor costs, which have been among the most persistent financial pressures in fruit, vegetable, tree nut, and horticulture production. Priority areas include data-driven predictive tools using artificial intelligence, robotics, sensor technologies, precision agriculture, improved mechanization technologies that delay or inhibit ripening, decision support systems, management of quarantine pests, and cybersecurity for agricultural systems. The funding increase was enabled by the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation, more than doubling the previous SCRI budget from $80 million to $175 million per year. Applications are due by 5:00 PM Eastern Time on June 15, 2026. This represents the largest federal investment specifically targeting AI and automation in specialty crop agriculture.

Farmed Cervid Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Activities Funding Opportunity FY 2026 is sponsored by USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This funding opportunity from APHIS aims to control and prevent chronic wasting disease (CWD) in farmed cervids (e. g. , deer and elk). The grants support projects that help states, tribes, universities, and other entities in managing and responding to CWD.

Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Activities Funding Opportunity FY 2026 (Tribal Nations Wild Cervid) is sponsored by USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS is offering competitive funding opportunities to control and prevent chronic wasting disease (CWD) in wild cervids on lands owned or managed by Tribal entities.

Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Funding Opportunities FY 2026 (Wild Cervid) is sponsored by USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS is offering competitive funding to control and prevent chronic wasting disease (CWD) in wild cervids. Eligible projects may include research, testing, surveillance, herd management, environmental response efforts, and educational outreach programs.

PNF McCall SO Lawn Services is sponsored by USDA Forest Service. This is a solicitation for lawn care services for the USDA Forest Service in the Intermountain Region. While not a typical 'grant' for business growth, it represents a direct opportunity for a lawn care business to secure a federal contract.

Micro-Grants for Food Security Program (MGFSP) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). The MGFSP assists agricultural agencies or departments in eligible states and territories to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food in food-insecure communities. This is achieved through small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations.

Micro-Grants for Food Security Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). The Micro-Grants for Food Security Program (MGFSP) assists agricultural agencies or departments in eligible states and territories to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food in food insecure communities through small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operat…

AgrAbility - Assistive Technology Program for Farmers with Disabilities is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The AgrAbility program works to increase the likelihood that individuals with disabilities, including veterans, and their families engaged in the agricultural enterprise will become more successful. The program supports the provision of assistive technology.

Agricultural Genome to Phenome Initiative (AG2PI) Research Projects is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This initiative focuses on collaborative science to build a community of researchers across both crops and animals to expand knowledge concerning genomes and phenomes of importance to U.S. agriculture. It supports research to study agriculturally significant crops and animals in production environments, fill knowledge gaps in agricultural crop and animal genetics and phenomics, identify and understand relevant genes, and enhance genetic improvement. These goals require interdisciplinary approaches combining advanced computing, automated high-throughput phenotyping and genotyping, and climatic modeling.

Agricultural Genome to Phenome Initiative - Research Grants is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This program funds research that integrates phenomics, genomics, engineering, genetic variations, and data science to improve the production and viability of crop and livestock species. It aims to fill gaps in knowledge of agricultural crop and animal genetics and phenomics and to develop a functional understanding of relevant genes for the U.S. agriculture sector.

Open Data Framework Program is sponsored by National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), USDA. This program aims to build frameworks for neutral and secure data repositories and cooperatives where producers, universities, and nonprofit entities can store and share data to foster agricultural innovation, technological progress, production efficiencies, and environmental st…

Community Connect Grants is sponsored by USDA Rural Utilities Service (RUS). This program provides financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible applicants that will provide, on a "community-oriented connectivity" basis, broadband service that fosters economic growth and delivers enhanced educational, health care, and public safety benefits in t…

Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Programs is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Business-Cooperative Service. This program provides funding for rural projects through local utility organizations. USDA offers zero-interest loans to local utilities, which they then pass through to local businesses for projects that create and retain employment in rural areas.

Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program is sponsored by USDA Rural Development Florida State Office. This program provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) in Florida. These MDOs then use the funds to support the startup and growth of microenterprises through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund and offer training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro-entrepreneurs. Funds for ultimate recipients can be used for working capital, debt refinancing, purchasing equipment and supplies, and improving real estate.

Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program in Texas is a grant program from USDA Rural Development Texas that funds rural job creation and retention through local utility organizations. USDA provides zero-interest loans to local utilities, which pass them to local businesses for projects that create and retain employment in rural areas. USDA also provides grants that utilities use to establish Revolving Loan Funds for additional rural job-focused projects. Eligible applicants are current or former Rural Utilities Service electric or telecommunication borrowers and not-for-profit utilities eligible under the Rural Electrification Act. Applications are accepted quarterly, with the 2026 fourth quarter deadline of June 30, 2026. The USDA Rural Development Texas office administers the program.

Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program is a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that funds rural job creation and economic development projects through local utility organizations. USDA provides zero-interest loans up to $1 million to Rural Utilities Service (RUS) electric and telecommunications borrowers, which they pass through to local businesses and community projects. Grants up to $300,000 are available to establish Revolving Loan Funds for ongoing rural lending. Eligible uses include community development assistance, facilities and equipment for education and medical care, and start-up venture costs. A 20% match is required for grants. Eligible applicants are current or former RUS electric or telecommunication borrowers and not-for-profit utilities eligible under the Rural Electrification Act.

Strategic Economic and Community Development (SECD) Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Strategic Economic and Community Development (SECD) Program is a priority designation from the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that gives funding priority to rural development projects that support implementation of multi-jurisdictional regional economic development plans.

Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Programs is sponsored by USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service. This program provides funding for rural projects through local utility organizations. USDA offers zero-interest loans to local utilities, which they pass to local businesses for job creation and retention. Grants are also provided to establish Revolving Loan Funds.

USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development. This grant helps rural communities use advanced telecommunications technology to connect to each other and the world, overcoming the effects of remoteness and low population density. It can support the use of telemedicine and telehealth, which is relevant for a hospital offering specialized services like audiology and ENT in a rural setting.

Food for Progress Program Notice of Funding Opportunity Fiscal Year 2026 is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). This program aims to provide international assistance that delivers a measurable return on investment for the American people, especially American farmers, ranchers, and producers, through the purchase of U.S. agricultural commodities. It supports projects in priority countries (including Morocco in MENA) that strengthen farming systems, improve infrastructure, and strengthen agricultural value chains. While not directly civil society focused, NGOs working in agriculture, food security, and rural development in eligible countries could apply.

Food for Progress Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). The Food for Progress Program helps make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous by investing in strategically selected partner countries committed to improving agricultural productivity and expanding agricultural trade. It purchases bulk U.S. agricultural commodities to be sold commercially in emerging economies, with proceeds supporting agricultural, economic, or infrastructure development programs. Priority countries for FY 2026 include Bolivia and Ecuador, which are in Latin America.

The USDA NIFA SBIR/STTR program funds small business research in agricultural innovation with ten priority topic areas including precision agriculture, crop monitoring, food safety technology, animal health, plant genomics, sustainable forestry, rural broadband, and agricultural AI applications. Precision agriculture and crop monitoring consistently represent the largest funded topic cluster, including AI-powered technologies for variable-rate application, crop health assessment via remote sensing or ground-based sensors, automated scouting systems, and yield prediction models. The FY2026 solicitation targets technologies that improve agricultural productivity, food safety, natural resource management, and rural economic development.

Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program – Produce Prescription (GusNIP-PPR) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This program provides funding for projects where healthcare providers prescribe fresh fruits and vegetables to patients. Patients then redeem these prescriptions for free or discounted produce.

TechAccess: AI-Ready America is sponsored by U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration (DOL ETA), U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This program aims to expand access to AI knowledge, tools, training, and capacity building for all Americans.

Food and Agriculture Service Learning Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Grants are provided to develop and expand existing farm to school initiatives and other food and learning initiatives with the overall goal of increasing knowledge of agriculture and improving the nutritional health of children.

Food Safety Outreach Program is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Funds education, training, outreach, and technical assistance projects that help farmers, small processors, and food businesses implement food safety practices and comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act, indirectly supporting secure and safe food supplies[3][4].

Conservation Partners Program is sponsored by National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in partnership with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), The J.M. Smucker Co., PepsiCo, General Mills, Cargill, Nestlé, Walmart, and Sam's Club. The Conservation Partners Program funds locally-led projects that provide technical assistance to agricultural producers to adopt regenerative agriculture systems and conservation practices.

Urban, Indoor, and Emerging Agriculture (UIE) Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The Urban, Indoor, and Emerging Agriculture (UIE) program supports research, education, and extension work by awarding grants to solve key problems of local, regional, and national importance that facilitate the development of urban, indoor, and emerging agriculture.

The USDA NRCS Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) program is a competitive program that drives public and private sector innovation in natural resource conservation through projects that develop new tools, approaches, practices, and technologies for application on private lands. The program has three components: CIG Classic for national-scale innovation projects, CIG On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials for field-testing new conservation approaches with farmers, and state-level CIG for localized innovation. CIG is increasingly funding AI and precision agriculture technologies, including machine learning-based irrigation scheduling, AI-enhanced soil health monitoring, precision application systems, drone and satellite-based crop monitoring using computer vision, and predictive analytics for conservation planning. Recent awards have included a $2.4 million University of Hawaii project for an AI-enhanced weather-based irrigation scheduling tool that uses machine learning to optimize water use. The program specifically targets innovative technologies not yet commonly adopted, making cutting-edge AI agricultural tools a strong fit. Projects must demonstrate on-the-ground conservation benefits addressing water quality, air quality, soil health, or wildlife habitat while improving agricultural operations. The 2026 cycle deadline has not yet been announced but typically falls in spring-summer, with announcements on Grants.gov. All projects require at least 1:1 non-federal matching funds, and NRCS evaluates proposals based on innovation, conservation impact, scalability, and partnership quality.

Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials for fiscal year (FY) 2026 is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). This program stimulates the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies on working agricultural lands. Projects can address priorities such as grazing land management, nutrient management, and soil health, which could include practices beneficial for pollinator habitat and grassland conservation. For-profit entities are eligible if their primary business is related to agriculture.

Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) is a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS that funds the development of new tools, approaches, practices, and technologies to advance natural resource conservation on private agricultural lands. CIG operates through three competition tracks: CIG Classic for early-stage national projects, CIG On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials for broader adoption of innovative practices in partnership with producers, and state-level competitions targeting state-identified conservation priorities such as water quality, air quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat. Awards range from $50,000 to $2,000,000. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, tribes, state and local governments, and educational institutions. Special consideration is given to historically underserved applicants.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund Grants and Technical Assistance is sponsored by USDA Rural Development, Reinvestment Fund. This program offers grant funding for planning, implementation, and technical assistance projects related to food retail supply chain resiliency, access to healthy foods, employment, and low-income community revitalization.

FY 2026 Team Nutrition Training Grant: Growing Healthier Futures is sponsored by USDA Food and Nutrition Service. The goal of this grant is to enhance training for child nutrition professionals to improve meal quality, support wellness policies and nutrition education that emphasize whole, minimally processed foods, and build sustainable infrastructure for NSLP, SBP, SFSP, and CACFP program operators. Applicants can choose one of two objectives: delivering training and technical assistance to child nutrition professionals in School Meals Programs, or providing training, mentorship, and technical assistance to CACFP providers.

Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations Nutrition Education Grants is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA Food and Nutrition Administration (FNA). Funding to provide nutrition education for participants of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, resulting in healthier food choices and a better understanding of healthy food preparation methods.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund Grants and Technical Assistance is sponsored by The Food Trust / Reinvestment Fund (administering on behalf of USDA). This initiative provides grants and technical assistance to organizations that invest in businesses working to increase and preserve healthy food options in low-income communities, support the development of local and regional food business enterprises, and create new market opportunities for farmers. Nonprofit corporations are eligible.

Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans (AgVets) Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The AgVets program provides grants to non-profit organizations to increase the number of military veterans gaining knowledge and skills needed to be successful in food and agricultural careers. Projects offer hands-on training and classroom education, as well as workforce readiness and employment preparation strategies.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund is sponsored by USDA Rural Development / Reinvestment Fund. This federal program provides grants, technical assistance, and loans to improve access to fresh, healthy, affordable food in urban and rural underserved communities. It supports food retail and food enterprise projects within the post-harvest food retail supply chain, aiming to address barriers to entry in these fields. Funds can be used for planning, implementation, and technical assistance related to food retail supply chain resiliency, healthy food access, employment, and low-income community revitalization. Projects can include building new grocery stores, renovating existing ones, establishing e-commerce or delivery models, or expanding food hubs.

Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations Nutrition Education Grants is sponsored by USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Funding is provided to offer nutrition education for participants of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. The objective is to facilitate healthier food choices and a better understanding of healthy food preparation methods.

HFFI Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund is sponsored by Reinvestment Fund (administered in partnership with USDA Rural Development). The HFFI FARE Fund offers grant funding for planning, implementation, and technical assistance projects related to food retail supply chain resiliency, access to healthy foods, employment, and low-income community revitalization.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund Grants and Technical Assistance is sponsored by USDA Rural Development, administered by Reinvestment Fund. This program provides grants and technical assistance to eligible fresh, healthy food retailers and food retail supply chain enterprises that improve access to healthy foods in underserved areas.

Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations Nutrition Education Grants is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). This funding provides nutrition education for participants of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, aiming to result in healthier food choices and better understanding of healthy food preparation methods.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund Grants and Technical Assistance is sponsored by USDA Rural Development (administered by Reinvestment Fund). This program offers grant funding for planning, implementation, and technical assistance projects related to food retail supply chain resiliency, access to healthy foods, employment, and low-income community revitalization.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund Grants and Technical Assistance is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA Rural Development) and Reinvestment Fund. The HFFI FARE Fund offers grant funding for planning, implementation, and technical assistance projects related to food retail supply chain resiliency, access to healthy foods, employment, and low-income community revitalization in underserved urban and rural areas.

Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The primary goal of BFRDP is to help beginning farmers and ranchers in the United States and its territories enter and/or improve their successes in farming, ranching, and management of nonindustrial private forest lands. This is achieved through projects that provide training, education, outreach, and technical assistance.

Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) Foundational and Applied Science Program is a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that funds research in six priority areas to advance knowledge in both fundamental and applied sciences important to agriculture. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) supports grants addressing animal breeding, genetics, and genomics, rapid response to emerging agricultural pests and diseases, and other foundational agricultural science topics. Awards of up to $650,000 are available. The deadline is August 6, 2026. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, and other research entities including land-grant institutions.

Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program - Phase 4 (MPPEP-4) is sponsored by USDA Rural Development. This program provides grants to eligible meat and poultry processors to expand their capacity, encourage competition, and improve supply chain resiliency. Funding is divided into two competitions: Very Small Processors and Small Processors, and Intermediate Processors.

Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program - Phase 4 (MPPEP-4) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS). This program provides competitive grant funding to very small, small, and intermediate processors to maximize the value and utilization of their existing capacity, with a focus on promoting local supply chains.

Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program - Phase 4 (MPPEP-4) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rural Business-Cooperative Service. This program provides competitive grant funding to Very Small, Small, and Intermediate Processors to maximize the value and utilization of their existing capacity, with a focus on promoting local supply chains.

Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rural Development. MPPEP aims to help small and mid-sized meat processors expand capacity, modernize facilities, and purchase equipment to improve business and diversify the meat and poultry supply chain. It supports the American beef industry and local market opportunities.

Bison Production and Marketing Grant Program (Administered by National Bison Association) is sponsored by National Bison Association (NBA) (funded by USDA Agricultural Marketing Service). This program supports projects that strengthen the economic viability, ecological performance, and market access of bison producers. It provides competitive grants to support bison producers, businesses, and eligible entities in expanding production capacity, improving processing and infrastructure, strengthening market access, and increasing consumer demand for bison products. This includes support for regenerative grazing systems, which are crucial for prairie restoration.

Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This program establishes a network to connect individuals in agricultural occupations to behavioral health, mental health, and suicide prevention resources. It funds four Regional Centers for training and community support, and a National Farmer Distress Helpline.

Expanding Agroforestry Project is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Advancing Markets for Producers initiative. This grant program provides funding and technical assistance to farmers interested in applying agroforestry techniques to their lands. It aims to improve land health, reduce stress on livestock, and strengthen markets for agroforestry products.

Bison Production and Marketing Grant Program (Administered by National Bison Association) is sponsored by USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). This program strengthens the economic viability, ecological performance, and market access of bison producers across the United States. It provides competitive grants to support bison producers, businesses, and eligible entities in expanding production capacity, improving processing and infrastructure, strengthening market access, and increasing consumer demand for bison products. Funds support activities across the value chain, including production, regenerative grazing systems, business development, marketing, and education related to bison food products and byproducts. This specific subaward program through the National Bison Association focuses on industry-wide education, data, and consumer outreach.

Food and Nutrition Program (NIFA-BARD-IIA) is sponsored by U.S.-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD), USDA-NIFA, and Israeli Innovation Authority (IIA). A 5-year funding scheme to support applicable joint U. S. -Israel food and nutrition research and development missions. This program aims to improve food and nutrition, increase the variety and availability of food, and support healthy consumption.

Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) - Partnership with U.S.-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD) is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and U.S.-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD). This partnership allows Israeli scientists to collaborate with NIFA-funded scientists in specific Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) programs, focusing on topics such as climate variability and change, animal production systems, breeding and genomics, and water for …

Partnership with the U.S.-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This partnership promotes collaboration among U. S. and Israeli scientists and engineers in agricultural research and development. It facilitates collaborations through programs like the AFRI Food and Nutrition program, which supports U.

E (Kika) de la Garza Emerging Markets Program (EMP) is sponsored by USDA – Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). Supports the development, maintenance, or expansion of markets for exports of United States agricultural commodities and promotes cooperation and exchange of information between agricultural institutions and agribusinesses in the United States and emerging markets.

2027 Market Access Program is sponsored by USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). This program shares the cost of certain marketing and promotion activities to expand exports of U.S. agricultural commodities. It is intended to foster expanded exports and market diversification by encouraging the development, maintenance, and expansion of diverse commercial export markets for United States agricultural commodities and products. All U.S. agricultural commodities, except tobacco, are eligible for consideration.

E (Kika) de la Garza Emerging Markets Program (EMP) is sponsored by USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). This program supports developing, maintaining, or expanding markets for exports of United States agricultural commodities and promoting cooperation and exchange of information between agricultural institutions and agribusinesses in the United States and emerging markets.

Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long-term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development. This program expands domestic production capacity, promotes competition, strengthens supply chain resilience, and increases fertilizer availability (including iron as a critical crop nutrient) for United States farmers in support of agricultural productivity.

Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA) for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026 is sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that offer value-added contributions to expand the ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns.

Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Classic for federal fiscal year (FY) 2026 is sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners who offer value-added contributions to expand the ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns.

Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Classic for federal fiscal year (FY) 2026 is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that offer value-added contributions to expand the collective ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns.

Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Classic for federal fiscal year (FY) 2026 is sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns. NRCS co-invests with partners to implement projects that provide solutions to conservation challenges.

Specialty Crop Multi-State Program (SCMP) is sponsored by USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) in partnership with South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA). The SCMP competitively awards funds to projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by funding collaborative, multi-state projects that address regional or national level specialty crop issues, including food safety, plant pests and disease, research, crop…

Specialty Crop Multi-State Program is sponsored by USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (administered by South Carolina Department of Agriculture). This federal grant program competitively awards funds to projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by funding collaborative, multi-state projects addressing regional or national level specialty crop issues, including food safety, plant pests and disease, resea…

Specialty Crop Multi-State Program (SCMP) is sponsored by USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) administered by South Carolina Department of Agriculture. The SCMP competitively awards funds to projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by funding collaborative, multi-state projects addressing regional or national specialty crop issues such as food safety, plant pests and disease, research, and marketing.

Wetland Mitigation Banking Program (WMBP) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The WMBP supports the development of wetland mitigation banks for agricultural producers. Wetlands are restored, created, or enhanced, generating credits that can be purchased by producers to compensate for unavoidable impacts to wetlands at another location.

Professional Development for Agricultural Literacy (PDAL) is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This program supports professional development opportunities for K-14 educational professionals to increase the number of individuals trained in food and agricultural sciences. Projects should help educators integrate agricultural science concepts into curricula, introduce students to career pathways, and build connections with industry and higher education. An encouraged focus area is Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a foundational skill.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, Reinvestment Fund. This program builds the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships to provide financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by Healthy Food Financing Initiative, Reinvestment Fund, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA Rural Development). This program builds the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships to provide financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises. Rural areas are a program priority.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) administered by Reinvestment Fund. HFFI provides grants, loans, and technical assistance to improve access to healthy food in underserved areas, create and preserve quality jobs, and revitalize low-income communities.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) / Reinvestment Fund. This program provides funding to build the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships to offer financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises. Rural areas are a program priority.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by Healthy Food Financing Initiative, Reinvestment Fund, USDA Rural Development. This program funds partnerships that provide financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises, with a priority for rural areas.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by USDA Rural Development, Reinvestment Fund (as an intermediary). This program provides funding to build the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships. These partnerships then provide financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by USDA Rural Development, Reinvestment Fund. This program provides funding to build the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships to provide financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by Reinvestment Fund in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This program aims to build a more equitable food system by improving access to healthy food and expanding economic opportunity in underserved areas.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by Healthy Food Financing Initiative, Reinvestment Fund, U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA Rural Development. This program funds partnerships to build the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships. These partnerships then provide financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises. Rural areas are a program priority.

Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by Reinvestment Fund, in partnership with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This program provides grants to public-private partnerships that offer financing and technical assistance to strengthen food retailers and food supply-chain businesses serving underserved communities. The goal is to improve access to healthy food and strengthen local economies.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by USDA Rural Development / Reinvestment Fund. This program provides funding to build the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships to offer financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises.

America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program (HFFI Partnerships Program) is sponsored by USDA Rural Development, administered by Reinvestment Fund. This program builds the capacity of locally and regionally focused Healthy Food Financing Partnerships to provide financial and technical assistance to eligible healthy food retailers and post-harvest food retail supply chain enterprises. Rural areas are a program priority. HFFI aims to improve access to healthy foods in underserved areas, create and preserve quality jobs, and revitalize low-income communities. It provides grants, loans, and technical assistance.

Feral Swine Eradication Program is sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This program provides grant funding to qualified partners to help landowners reduce wild hog populations that threaten farms, ranches, and natural resources. The program addresses both the economic and biological impacts of feral swine.

PPA 7721: Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program Funding Opportunity FY 2027 is sponsored by USDA APHIS. APHIS is offering funding opportunities for projects organized around specific goal areas that represent critical needs and opportunities to strengthen against, prevent, detect, and mitigate invasive plant pests and diseases. While not directly animal welfare, some aspects might broadly relate to ecosystem health impacting wildlife.

National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program is sponsored by USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS offers funding opportunities for projects that enhance the early detection of high-consequence animal diseases and improve emergency response capabilities in veterinary diagnostic laboratories that are part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network.

Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program is sponsored by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This program funds projects aimed at controlling feral swine populations in key agricultural regions to reduce damage to crops, pastureland, wildlife habitat, soil, and water resources.

Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program is sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This program provides funding for partnerships to combat feral swine and protect American agriculture, landscapes, and human and livestock health. Projects involve landowner assistance for restoration and on-farm trapping efforts, and related services like training.

Small Business Innovation Research Program - Phase I (AgTech, including precision farming, drone-based technologies) is sponsored by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA). This grant funds early-stage research and development in agricultural technology, including precision farming and drone-based technologies, to strengthen U. S. agriculture. It is a competitive program for small businesses.

Dairy Business Planning Grant is sponsored by Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative (SDBII) - USDA AMS. This grant provides reimbursement funds to permitted dairy farm businesses and processors located in the Southeast (Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico) that ar…