The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) invites applications for the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative - Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) program for fiscal year (FY) 2026. The long-term purpose of this call is to help transform the U.S. food and agricultural system to increase agricultural production while enhancing farmer prosperity. Achieving this goal will require transdisciplinary approaches to address current and future food and agricultural challenges within the context of the economic viability of farm operations, quality of life for farmers and society as a whole, and the most efficient use of resources. NIFA is soliciting applications under two Program Area Priorities: Strengthening Agricultural Systems and Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Food and Agricultural Sciences.
- Strengthening Agricultural Systems Program
- Sub-priorities:
- New Uses and Expanding Markets for Agriculture and Forestry Products
- Solutions to Pests and Diseases of Plants or Animals
- Combating Food and Diet-Related Chronic Diseases
- Project Type: Integrated
- Matching Requirement: 1:1 match required unless a waiver applies
- Letter of Intent Deadline: February 26, 2026 (requested LOI, not required)
- Application Deadline: March 26, 2026 by 2pm
- Grant Duration: up to 5 years
- Maximum Award Amount: $10,000,000
- Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Food and Agricultural Sciences
- Project Type: Integrated
- Matching Requirement: 1:1 match required unless a waiver applies
- Letter of Intent Deadline: February 26, 2026 (requested LOI, not required)
- Application Deadline: April 23, 2026 by 2pm
- Grant Duration: up to 5 years
- Maximum Award Amount: $2,000,000
Please see the Strengthening Agricultural Systems RFA for more information about this funding opportunity and access to the application materials.