Dear Colleagues,
USDA NIFA invites applications for the Smith-Lever Special Needs Competitive Grants Program (SLSNCGP). This program enables the Cooperative Extension System (CES) to assist communities in preparing for, responding to, recovering from, and mitigating disasters and disaster threats. The SLSNCGP will fund the development of educational programs, resource deliverables, and demonstration activities that focus on disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation.
SLSNCGP projects must address at least one of these Topical Areas:
- Agriculture: Includes but is not limited to row crop and forage health and production; livestock health and production; aquaculture; fruit and vegetable production; food loss and waste; farm and agribusiness management; economics; urban agriculture; farm safety; and agricultural biosecurity.
- Natural Resources: Includes but is not limited to water; forestry; wood sciences; range; waste management; energy, wildlife; recreation; and environmental education.
- Community and Economic Development: Includes but is not limited to small business; workforce development; community planning; placemaking; revitalization; tourism; visioning and strategic planning; leadership development; housing; homeowner education; civic engagement; volunteerism; broadband; and rural life.
- Family and Consumer Sciences: Includes but is not limited to nutrition; food safety; food loss and waste; nutrition security; health management and wellness; health equity; well-being; mental health; personal and family finance; child development; early childhood education; individual and family relationships; textiles; and hospitality.
- 4-H and Youth Development: Includes but is not limited to youth development; career exploration; civic engagement; STEM education; and volunteerism.
SLSNCGP projects must address at least one of the Strategies as detailed in the solicitation:
- Program and Resource Development
- Exercise and Training
- Communications
- Disaster Planning
- Professional Development and Capacity Building
Key Details:
Grant Types:
- Extension Standard Projects: Duration: 12–36 months; Maximum Award: $115,000
- Extension Planning Projects: Duration: 12 months; Maximum Award: $30,000
Required match: 1:1 match required
Proposal Deadline: February 13, 2025
Visit the NIFA website to learn more about this funding opportunity and access the full Request for Applications (RFA).
Thank you,
Kendra Rose, Associate Director, ANR Proposal Development Services