The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), is now inviting applications under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI): Education and Workforce Development (EWD) Program. This funding opportunity is designed to strengthen education, training, and workforce development across the food and agricultural sciences, ensuring the next generation of professionals is well-prepared to meet global agricultural and food system challenges.
With agriculture facing rapid transformation due to climate change, technological advancement, and shifting workforce demands, the AFRI EWD program plays a critical role in building a skilled, diverse, and future-ready workforce. The program supports initiatives that span the entire education-to-employment pipeline, from youth education to postdoctoral training.
Grant Overview
- Programme: Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) – Education & Workforce Development (EWD)
- Funder: National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA)
- Total Funding Available: USD 39.7 million
- Award Range: USD 10,000 to 650,000, depending on project type
- Posted Date: 20 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 31 December 2026
Award size, project duration, and funding structure vary based on the specific category and scope of the proposed project.
Programme Focus and Objectives
The AFRI EWD program is focused on strengthening the education-to-career pathway in agriculture and food-related disciplines. Funded projects are expected to enhance learning outcomes, improve workforce readiness, and ensure alignment between education, industry needs, and societal priorities.
Key programme objectives include:
- Building institutional and community capacity to deliver high-quality agricultural education
- Strengthening workforce readiness for careers in agriculture, food systems, and related industries
- Promoting inclusive participation among underrepresented and underserved populations
- Aligning education and training programs with industry demands, emerging technologies, and public needs
- Encouraging innovation in teaching, learning, and workforce development models
Through these efforts, the program aims to ensure a resilient, competitive, and inclusive agricultural workforce.
Supported Funding Areas
The AFRI EWD program supports a wide range of education and workforce development activities, including but not limited to:
- Professional development for K–14 educators, including teachers, faculty, and extension professionals
- Youth-focused non-formal agricultural education programs, such as outreach initiatives and experiential learning
- Workforce training programs at community, junior, and technical colleges
- Undergraduate research and extension training programs that provide hands-on learning experiences
- Predoctoral fellowships to support graduate-level training and research
- Postdoctoral fellowships aimed at developing advanced research and leadership skills
- Education and workforce development workshops that promote collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing
These funding areas are designed to address workforce needs at multiple educational levels while fostering long-term career development.
Eligibility Overview
Eligibility to apply for this funding opportunity depends on the specific project type and funding category. Eligible applicants may include:
- Land-grant institutions (1862, 1890, and 1994 institutions)
- State-controlled institutions of higher education
- Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs)
- Nonprofit organizations, with or without 501(c)(3) status
- For-profit organizations and small businesses, where specified
- Individuals and Native American Tribal organizations
⚠️ Important: Eligibility requirements vary by project category. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) carefully to confirm eligibility and submission requirements.
Key Application Details
- Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-NIFA-AFRI-011596
- Assistance Listing Number: 10.310
- Applications must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the official NOFO guidelines
- Some project types may require cost sharing or matching funds, depending on program requirements
Applicants should ensure that proposals clearly align with AFRI priorities and demonstrate measurable outcomes and broader impacts.
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Priority Areas
Proposed projects should align with one or more of the AFRI priority areas, including:
- Sustainable and organic agriculture
- Food safety and nutrition security
- Biotechnology and emerging agricultural technologies
- Crop and animal production systems
- Soil health, water management, and environmental resilience
- Agricultural economics, markets, and policy
- Education innovation and workforce development
Projects that integrate education, research, and real-world application are particularly encouraged.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should review the full funding announcement and application instructions provided by NIFA. Complete details on eligibility, funding categories, required documents, and submission procedures are available at the official link below:
The AFRI Education and Workforce Development Program represents a significant opportunity for institutions, organizations, and individuals to shape the future of agriculture through education and workforce innovation. By investing in people, skills, and inclusive pathways, this funding supports a stronger, more sustainable global food system.