The NARMS Cooperative Agreement Program, issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through its Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), aims to strengthen antibiotic resistance surveillance in retail food specimens. This program is part of the FDA's ongoing efforts under the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS), a program launched in 1996 to address the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. Through cooperative agreements with various entities, this funding opportunity supports initiatives to enhance and broaden the monitoring of antibiotic resistance in bacteria found in food products. This initiative aligns with national public health goals, as it seeks to bolster the safety of the food supply chain and mitigate risks associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

The primary objective of this funding opportunity is to improve public health by developing stronger and more sustainable methods for detecting antibiotic resistance in food. By expanding the scope of sampling across different sites and increasing the number of specimens tested, the program intends to provide a more comprehensive understanding of antibiotic resistance trends. These efforts contribute to the broader goals of the NARMS program, which includes reducing antibiotic resistance in bacteria that can impact human health through foodborne exposure.

Funding for this program will be provided through cooperative agreements, and while the total program funding amount has not been specified, the award ceiling per grant is set at $4,500,000. The program is expected to support around 30 awards, although specific award amounts may vary. There is no requirement for cost-sharing or matching funds from applicants, which may make the program more accessible to a wide range of eligible entities.

Eligibility for this program is broad, covering a range of governmental, educational, tribal, nonprofit, and for-profit organizations. Eligible applicants include state, county, city, and township governments; public and private institutions of higher education; federally recognized and non-federally recognized Native American tribal governments and organizations; independent school districts; nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status; as well as small and other for-profit businesses. This wide eligibility scope allows for a variety of institutions to participate, potentially increasing the diversity and reach of the program’s impact.

The program does not currently have an estimated application deadline, award date, or project start date, as it is still in the forecast stage. However, the forecast release date of November 5, 2024, suggests that more detailed timelines may become available soon. Interested applicants should monitor the grant listing on Grants.gov for updates or contact the FDA grantor representative, Terrin Brown, for additional information.

This funding opportunity offers a significant chance for various organizations to engage in a critical public health effort. By participating, organizations can contribute to the national effort against antibiotic resistance, especially in the food supply chain.