Coordinating Agricultural Development Innovation (CADI) to enable America First Trade Wins in Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia

The Coordinating Agricultural Development and Innovation program is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture through its Foreign Agricultural Service, specifically within the Global Programs Agricultural Economic Development portfolio. The funding opportunity is designed to support the Technical Agricultural Assistance Program by issuing a cooperative research award focused on advancing American agricultural trade interests abroad. The program operates within a broader interagency framework that includes collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, particularly in regions such as Eastern Europe outside the European Union, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia. The overall purpose is to generate measurable economic benefits for the United States by removing trade barriers, expanding export opportunities, and strengthening agricultural systems in partner countries. The primary objective of the program is to fund an eligible institution to conduct applied and basic research that produces actionable recommendations supporting the CADI portfolio of projects. These projects aim to increase U.S. agricultural exports, prevent trade disruptions, and enhance global market access for American producers. The selected recipient is expected to analyze economic outcomes, track progress toward defined trade targets, and produce detailed impact estimates at the U.S. county level. The work includes producing annual and final reports, delivering quarterly presentations to agency leadership, and generating success stories that demonstrate measurable impacts across participating countries. The research will contribute directly to goals such as increasing wheat exports, expanding market share in poultry and aquaculture, and mitigating risks such as livestock disease spread. Funding for this opportunity is structured as a cost reimbursable agreement with an initial allocation of 332500 dollars and a potential cumulative total of 997500 dollars over a three year performance period. The anticipated period of performance begins November 1, 2026 and extends through September 31, 2028, with possible extensions. Indirect costs are capped at ten percent of direct costs, and certain expenditures are restricted, including unmanned aircraft systems and costs unrelated to the specific project scope. Personnel compensation is also limited to a defined federal pay scale equivalent. While cost sharing is not required, it is encouraged, allowing applicants to strengthen proposals through additional institutional support. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to state cooperative institutions and other colleges and universities in the United States as defined by federal statute. Applicants must maintain active registration in the System for Award Management and comply with all submission and eligibility requirements. Only one application per institution is permitted, and all proposals must include required documentation such as federal forms, a detailed budget narrative, and a comprehensive project plan. The project plan must outline research methodology, leadership structure, institutional capabilities, and logistical considerations, including travel and coordination with international partners. The application process requires submission through the USDA ezFedGrants system, and applicants must ensure system registration and identity verification in advance. Required application components include standard federal forms, a detailed budget and justification, and a narrative describing the research approach and qualifications of the project lead and supporting team. Evaluation criteria include technical expertise, demonstrated experience, quality of the research plan, budget reasonableness, and overall completeness and clarity. Applications are reviewed by a panel and scored based on these criteria, with final selections made by an authorized official who may consider strategic priorities. Key dates include a deadline for submitting questions on September 22, 2026 and a final application submission deadline of September 28, 2026 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time. Applicants are encouraged to submit early to avoid technical issues. The program does not specify recurring funding cycles, indicating this is a single competitive opportunity. Contact information for inquiries is provided through a designated program officer, including an email address and phone number for assistance. The award process includes notification by email, followed by formal agreement execution before any project activities may begin.

Emphasize technical expertise and relevant experience; clearly detail research methodology and expected outcomes; ensure budget is justified and aligned with project scope; maintain clarity and completeness in application