Tribal Colleges Extension Program - Capacity Applications

The Tribal Colleges Extension Program - Capacity Applications (TCEP-CA) supports informal, community-based extension projects that address agriculture, youths, economic development, healthy lifestyles, natural resources, or other topics important to Tribal communities. The program aims to provide opportunities for enhanced agricultural productivity, community resilience, economic growth, and youth development by extending the reach of innovations in research and technology and enhancing informal, local educational programs. The TCEP-CA is designed to support Cooperative Extension offices that provide practical, science-based lifelong learning opportunities. Some key areas of focus include: • Developing practical applications to increase understanding of leadership roles, including critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills; ethics and professionalism; working in teams. • Connecting the extension experience with daily leadership roles and organizational activities. • Providing opportunities for mentoring and shadowing. • Organizing leadership academics, workshops, training, etc. The program encourages projects involving innovative agricultural technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), that equip Tribal communities with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to and thrive in an increasingly digital society. Some of the key project topics of interest may include: • Agricultural productivity • Improving food systems • Community vitality • Workforce and economic development • Environmental quality • Public health and well-being • Engaging Tribal youths • Preparing the next generation of Tribal agriculture leaders Applicants must submit their applications electronically, and the application must include a project summary, project narrative, and other required documents. The project narrative should not exceed 15 pages and should include an introduction, rationale and significance, community and audience analysis, objectives and anticipated outcomes, approach, collaborative relationships, project timeline, and project evaluation. The evaluation criteria for the applications include: 1. The extent to which the proposed project aligns with the program goals and priorities. 2. The soundness of the proposed approach, including objectives, methodology, timetable, expected outcomes, and identification and dissemination of project impacts. 3. The adequacy of personnel and institutional support required to advance and sustain Extension outreach capacity. 4. The extent to which the budget clearly allocates sufficient resources to carry out Extension activities that will lead to desired outcomes. 5. The proposed project evaluation and performance monitoring plans. 6. The soundness of the institution’s data management plan. The program has an anticipated amount available of $10,500,000, with an average individual award of $300,000. The application deadline is August 14, 2026.