The Tribal Colleges Research Grants Program (TCRGP), administered by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), offers funding for 1994 Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) to enhance their research capacity. The program is designed to address issues of tribal, national, or multi-state significance in agriculture and related fields. With an anticipated funding level of $5 million for fiscal year 2025, individual awards range from $150,000 to $3 million, depending on the grant type. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with three funding phases ending on May 1, September 1, and December 31, 2025. Unspent funds from earlier phases will roll over to subsequent ones.

TCRGP emphasizes addressing tribal community needs through innovative research and collaboration. The program aligns with USDA strategic goals, such as combating climate change, fostering equitable marketplaces, and improving the quality of life in tribal communities. All applications must include research collaboration with an approved partner, such as land-grant institutions or USDA research facilities, and address issues like food security, climate-smart solutions, and traditional ecological knowledge.

Eligible applicants are limited to 1994 Tribal Colleges and Universities as designated under the Equity Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994. Projects must involve a student component, supporting experiential learning opportunities or internships. Each application is limited to one project type, such as Research Capacity Center grants (up to $3 million), New Discovery grants (up to $350,000), or Applied Faculty/Community grants (up to $150,000). Institutions are encouraged to engage with tribal stakeholders, employ culturally relevant methodologies, and integrate knowledge holders into their research plans.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov. Required materials include a project narrative (up to 15 pages), budget, data management plan, and letters of commitment from collaborators. Specific formatting and content requirements apply, with emphasis on addressing research objectives, timelines, and sustainability plans. NIFA provides technical assistance to ensure applications meet eligibility and administrative standards.

Proposals are evaluated through a peer-review process based on criteria such as research quality, institutional capability, student involvement, and budget justification. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate potential to advance tribal research capacity and solve pressing agricultural or environmental challenges. Successful applicants will be notified by September 30, 2025, with projects expected to commence soon after.

Recipients are required to submit periodic reports detailing progress, outcomes, and expenditures. Data management plans must adhere to NIFA standards, ensuring transparency and protection of tribal knowledge. Applicants can seek further guidance and clarification from NIFA program contacts or through resources provided in the funding opportunity announcement.