Agriculture Innovations and Research Grant Program

The North Carolina Agriculture Innovations and Research Grant Program, administered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS), is a state-funded initiative designed to advance the agricultural economy through research and innovation. The program consolidates three major focus areas: the Bioenergy Research Initiative, the New and Emerging Crops Program, and Innovations to Advance the Agricultural Economy. These combined efforts reflect a strategic investment by the North Carolina General Assembly to strengthen agricultural competitiveness, support new crop development, and foster innovation across the state’s agricultural sectors. Agriculture is a major economic driver in North Carolina, contributing over $100 billion annually, and this program is positioned to sustain and expand that impact. The primary purpose of the program is to fund research projects that enhance agricultural productivity, explore new and emerging crops, and support innovations that respond to evolving market and environmental conditions. Eligible project areas include bioenergy development, value-added agricultural products, and research that contributes to agribusiness growth. While collaboration with North Carolina’s network of research stations and field laboratories is encouraged, it is not required. The program supports projects that demonstrate clear potential to benefit the state’s agricultural economy through research, development, and practical application. Funding for the program totals $1,000,000 for the fiscal year cycle, with individual awards capped at $100,000. Projects may span up to three years, and the funding is provided on a reimbursement basis contingent upon submission of documentation verifying completed deliverables. Certain costs are restricted, including indirect or overhead expenses, and funding cannot be used for startup businesses or proprietary data collection. Equipment purchases exceeding $10,000 require prior approval, and all expenditures must comply with state guidelines for travel, lodging, and other allowable costs. Eligibility for the program is broad and includes institutions of higher education, Cooperative Extension entities, commodity associations, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit businesses. Applicants may submit multiple proposals, and multi-state collaborations are permitted. However, all projects must align with the program’s objectives and demonstrate a clear benefit to North Carolina agriculture. Awardees must comply with state laws, including requirements related to non-discrimination, conflict of interest, and financial accountability. The application process requires submission of a complete application packet, including a cover page, project profile, budget worksheet, and timeline. Applicants must also provide supporting documentation such as biographical sketches, letters of support, and proof of tax-exempt status if applicable. Applications must be submitted electronically in original file formats and accompanied by a signed hard copy mailed to the designated research station address. Strict formatting and completeness requirements apply, and incomplete submissions may be deemed ineligible. Applications are evaluated by a review committee using standardized criteria, with recommendations made based on project merit, feasibility, and alignment with program goals. The committee may suggest modifications to proposals, including adjustments to scope or budget. Final funding decisions are approved by the Commissioner of Agriculture. Successful applicants are notified in early 2026 and must complete additional documentation prior to contract execution. The program follows a structured annual timeline. Applications for the current cycle were due on November 14, 2025, with review occurring in December and awards announced in January 2026. Funded projects must submit quarterly performance reports and a final report within 60 days of project completion. Reimbursements are processed monthly based on approved expenses, and 20 percent of the total award is withheld until final reporting requirements are satisfied. For questions or assistance, applicants may contact program staff via email or phone.

Ensure all required documents are complete and formatted correctly; align project clearly with program priorities; provide strong justification for budget and methodology; demonstrate measurable impact on North Carolina agriculture