Grants Available to Combat Emerging Agricultural Threats

The USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, better known as NIFA, has launched a new competitive grants program to rapidly address emerging and re-emerging pest and disease threats.

USDA said the grants program, Rapid Response to Emerging and Re-Emerging Pest and Disease Events Across Food and Agricultural Systems, is designed to deploy timely, science-based solutions to protect agricultural productivity, ecosystem health, and food security.

“Invasive and emerging pests and diseases can devastate crops, livestock, and ecosystems, disrupt supply chains and threaten food security,” said NIFA Director Dr. Jaye Hamby. “This opportunity empowers researchers and Extension professionals to act quickly, delivering practical solutions that safeguard our agricultural communities and the nation’s food supply.”

Funded projects will focus on applied research and Extension and outreach activities that generate actionable knowledge and tools. These may include:

• Rapid understanding of pest/pathogen ecology, epidemiology, and immunology.
• Development and validation of diagnostics, vaccines, and control methods.
• Communication strategies, training opportunities, and best practices for mitigation.
• Technologies and protocols for detection, management, and prevention.

To ensure impact, projects must implement or develop at least one deliverable within six months of award receipt, with all activities completed within the grant period. Proposals are encouraged to integrate biological and social sciences, engage public-private partnerships, and support small- and medium-sized farms and ranches.

“This opportunity reflects USDA’s commitment to proactive, science-driven responses to agricultural threats,” Hamby said. “By supporting rapid innovation and collaboration, we’re helping communities stay resilient in the face of evolving challenges.”

USDA also welcomes proposals that address ecosystem health, including strategies to mitigate the environmental impacts of pests and diseases affecting plants, animals, and pollinators.  Projects that incorporate community development, youth development, and 4-H are also eligible, provided they align with the opportunity’s emphasis areas.

Visit NIFA's Website to learn more or to apply.

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