The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is offering grants aimed at advancing agriculture and the agricultural economy within the state. The department is seeking proposals for research projects that align with specific programs designed to address the evolving needs of the agricultural sector. The maximum funding available for each grant proposal is set at $150,000 for the 2024-25 cycle. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance agricultural practices and promote economic growth in North Carolina.

The purpose of this grant program is to support innovative research that can lead to advancements in agriculture. The specific objectives include fostering innovations to advance the agricultural economy, supporting bioenergy research, and identifying new and emerging crops that can be developed into commercially viable products. The program encourages research that not only addresses current agricultural challenges but also anticipates future needs within the sector.

Funding is available for several key areas. The Innovations to Advance the Agricultural Economy program, newly established in 2024, focuses on innovative research to meet the needs of the agricultural economy. The Bioenergy Research Initiative, which has been in place since 2013, supports the development of agricultural and forestry-based feedstocks for bioenergy production. Additionally, the New and Emerging Crops program aims to identify potential new crops and provide the necessary research and support to make these crops viable for growers in North Carolina.

Eligible applicants for this grant include universities, Cooperative Extension services, commodity associations, non-profit organizations, and for-profit businesses. The program is open to a wide range of organizations that can contribute to agricultural research and development. There are no matching funds required for this grant, making it accessible for various entities looking to engage in agricultural research.

Submission requirements and specific application questions have not been detailed in the provided information. However, interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to the grantor for further guidance. The evaluation criteria for proposals will likely focus on the relevance and potential impact of the research, as well as the feasibility of the proposed projects.

The deadline for submitting grant proposals is October 25, 2024. It is important for applicants to be aware of this timeline to ensure their proposals are submitted on time. For additional information or inquiries, applicants can contact Sam Brake at the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services via email or phone. This grant opportunity represents a significant chance for organizations involved in agricultural research to secure funding and contribute to the advancement of the agricultural economy in North Carolina.