Description
The USDA Rural Business‑Cooperative Service is offering up to three competitive grants to establish or expand Agriculture Innovation Centers that deliver technical assistance and market‑development services for value‑added agricultural products. Awards range from $600,000 to $1,000,000 each, with a three‑year performance period. Applicants must be eligible public, private, tribal, nonprofit, or for‑profit entities, must provide at least one‑third matching funds, and must be registered in SAM with a UEI. The deadline for electronic submissions is 11:59 p.m. ET on January 31, 2027; award decisions are expected by March 31, 2027.
• Grants total $2.5 M for FY 2026 (≈3 awards)
• Minimum award $600 K, maximum $1 M
• 3‑year project period, possible renewal not indicated
• Eligible entities: state, local, tribal governments; higher‑education institutions; nonprofits; small businesses; for‑profit firms
• Required cost‑share: ≥33 % of total project cost
• Application via email to [email protected]; must be in SAM with UEI
• Primary contact: Shamika Johnson (202‑720‑1495)