Biologically Integrated Farming Systems

The Biologically Integrated Farming Systems (BIFS) program is administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture through its Office of Pesticide Consultation and Analysis. The program is funded through the state’s pesticide mill assessment and is designed to support agricultural systems that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. Originally active between 1995 and 2010 and revitalized in recent years, the BIFS program builds on a history of funding projects that demonstrate environmentally sustainable farming practices while maintaining economic viability for growers. The program aligns closely with California’s Sustainable Pest Management Roadmap, which emphasizes reducing pesticide risks through innovation, education, and collaboration. The primary purpose of the BIFS grant is to support projects that demonstrate, refine, and promote biologically integrated farming systems that reduce chemical pesticide inputs. These projects must incorporate sustainable pest management strategies and focus on outreach and education to growers, pest control advisors, and other stakeholders. The program prioritizes efforts that enhance knowledge and technical assistance, align pest management professionals with sustainable practices, and reduce economic risk for growers transitioning to alternative systems. Priority topics for the current cycle include areawide pest management, monitoring systems, post-harvest disease control, and alternatives to certain high-risk pesticides. Funding for this opportunity totals up to $2 million, with approximately two awards anticipated at up to $1 million each. Projects are expected to begin in January 2027 and run for approximately four years. Funds must supplement existing programs rather than replace them. Allowable costs include personnel, equipment, travel, and outreach-related expenses, while unallowable costs include entertainment and fundraising activities. Indirect costs are capped at 10 percent of modified total direct costs. While matching funds are not required, the program encourages industry partnerships and cost-sharing contributions to strengthen proposals. Eligibility for the program includes a broad range of organizational entities such as public and private colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, tribal governments, commodity groups, and federal, state, and local government entities. However, California state agencies may not serve as lead applicants, though they may participate as subcontractors with funding capped at 30 percent of the total award. All project leads and their institutions must be based in California, although collaboration with out-of-state partners is permitted. Individual applicants are not eligible, and applications must be submitted through an organizational account. The application process consists of two stages: an initial concept proposal followed by a full proposal for selected applicants. The concept proposal requires submission through an online portal and includes sections such as general organizational information, project overview, and a detailed workplan. Budget narratives and attachments are not required at this stage. After submission, proposals are reviewed by a committee of experts from state agencies, universities, and industry organizations. Selected applicants are invited to develop full proposals, which include more detailed documentation and undergo further evaluation before final funding decisions are made. The concept proposal deadline for the current cycle is June 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM. The application process requires applicants to complete specific required fields and submit through the designated online system. Applicants are encouraged to consult the Applicant Guide and may submit questions via email until five business days before the deadline. Following submission, applicants will receive notification of their status and, if selected, will engage in a pre-project consultation with program staff prior to developing a full proposal. Evaluation of proposals is based on criteria including proposal quality, project justification, team qualifications, and feasibility and impact. Projects are assessed on their ability to reduce pesticide use, maintain agricultural productivity, and effectively disseminate findings to the broader agricultural community. Successful applicants must enter into a grant agreement and comply with reporting requirements, including annual progress reports and a final report documenting outcomes and impacts.

Align proposal with Sustainable Pest Management goals; emphasize measurable outcomes and outreach strategy; demonstrate economic viability alongside environmental benefits