The Methyl Bromide Transition (MBT) Program, administered by the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), seeks to fund research and extension projects addressing the transition from methyl bromide to economically viable and environmentally sound pest management alternatives. For FY2025, approximately $1,860,434 in funding is available, with individual awards ranging from $450,000 to $625,000 for integrated and extension-only projects. Applications are due by March 20, 2025, and awards will be announced by September 30, 2025.

The program addresses the phase-out of methyl bromide due to its classification as an ozone-depleting substance under the Montreal Protocol. The primary objective is to develop scalable pest management strategies that are both effective and economically feasible for pre- and post-harvest environments, including processing and shipping industries. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based colleges and universities, including 1994 Institutions and Hispanic-serving agricultural colleges and universities. Projects must incorporate integrated pest management (IPM) principles and demonstrate commercial scalability, with an economic analysis of proposed strategies.

Applicants can propose one of two project types: integrated projects, which must combine research and extension activities. These projects aim to develop new methodologies and disseminate findings to encourage adoption by stakeholders. Alternatively, applicants may propose extension-only projects, which focus exclusively on outreach to promote the adoption of methyl bromide alternatives, such as through field demonstrations, grower trials, or educational programs.

Applications must include a comprehensive project narrative, logic model, data management plan, and economic feasibility study. Additionally, matching funds are required on a dollar-for-dollar basis unless waived for minor commodities or scientifically significant projects. All projects must clearly outline a timeline with annual milestones and involve stakeholder collaboration in project priorities, implementation, and adoption.

The evaluation criteria include technical merit, qualifications of personnel and institutional resources, and project relevance. Proposals must align with stakeholder needs, demonstrate measurable outcomes, and outline a clear plan for implementation and scalability. Bonus points are available for projects seeking recognition as a Center of Excellence, which requires meeting additional criteria for collaboration, cost-effectiveness, and public-private partnerships.

Key post-award responsibilities include attending the annual Methyl Bromide Alternatives Outreach conference and complying with reporting requirements. Indirect costs are capped at 30 percent of the total federal funds awarded.

For more details, potential applicants can contact Dr. Vijay Nandula at Vijay.Nandula@usda.gov or refer to the USDA-NIFA Grants Application Guide for instructions on application submission. Additional resources, including templates and logic model planning tools, are available through NIFA's website.