The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA’s NIFA) revealed new grants “to deploy timely, science-based solutions to protect agricultural productivity, ecosystem health, and food security,” the government agency shared in a press release.
As part of the NIFA’s Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, the “Rapid Response to Emerging and Re-emerging Pest and Disease Events Across Food and Agricultural Systems” grants programme awards recipients with up to $500,000 over 12-24 months, to support research, integrated projects, or Extension (government-affiliated farmer). Applicants are accepted on a continuous basis, and within 180 days of a qualifying disease or pest event.
Applicants must develop or implement at least one deliverable within six months of receiving the grant, and the proposals must be completed by the grant period. Additionally, grant recipients are encouraged to seek public-private partnerships and work with small-to-medium-sized ranches and farms.
The grants can be used to develop and validate vaccines, diagnostics, and control methods, or be used to better understand pest/pathogen ecology, epidemiology, and immunology. Additionally, grants can go towards communications and training programmes and technologies for detection, prevention, and management.
“This opportunity reflects USDA’s commitment to proactive, science-driven responses to agricultural threats. By supporting rapid innovation and collaboration, we’re helping communities stay resilient in the face of evolving challenges,” said Jaye Hamby, NIFA director, in a press release.
He added, “Invasive and emerging pests and diseases can devastate crops, livestock, and ecosystems, disrupt supply chains and threaten food security. This program empowers researchers and Extension professionals to act quickly, delivering practical solutions that safeguard our agricultural communities and the nation’s food supply.”
