The Youth Farm Safety Education and Certification (YFSEC) Program, under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), seeks to support projects promoting farm safety education for youth in agricultural production. For fiscal year 2025, the program anticipates funding approximately $411,000, with a maximum of $138,000 per year for individual projects. Projects can extend up to four years, depending on the availability of funds, project performance, and federal priorities. Applications for this funding opportunity are due by March 20, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. This program is designated under Assistance Listing Number 10.500.

The primary goal of the YFSEC program is to reduce agricultural hazards among youth through education and certification initiatives. These efforts aim to promote safe agricultural practices, improve rural health, and ensure economic sustainability in farming communities. The program also seeks to build on past projects like the Safety in Agriculture for Youth (SAY) initiative, which established resources such as the National Clearinghouse for youth farm safety curricula. For fiscal year 2025, YFSEC projects are expected to enhance the SAY Clearinghouse, expand youth safety training, and support the training of instructors in existing curricula.

Eligibility for this funding is limited to Cooperative Extension Services at 1862, 1890, and 1994 Land-Grant Institutions, including the University of the District of Columbia, Tuskegee University, West Virginia State University, and Central State University. Partnerships with other Land-Grant Institutions and non-Land-Grant entities are encouraged. Collaborative proposals should demonstrate meaningful participation from all partners throughout the project duration. The program does not require cost-sharing or matching funds, and indirect costs are not allowed under the funding guidelines.

Applicants must submit their proposals through Grants.gov and include a comprehensive project narrative, a budget justification, and supporting documents such as letters of commitment from collaborators. Proposals must not exceed 15 pages for the main narrative, with additional space allowed for tables and figures. Key evaluation criteria include the project's potential to advance youth farm safety education, the soundness of objectives and methodology, cost-effectiveness, and plans for project sustainability beyond the grant period. Proposals should align with USDA priorities, including equity, workforce development, and economic opportunities in rural communities.

NIFA plans to fund up to three projects under this program, categorized as SAY Clearinghouse Projects, Instructor Training Projects, and Youth Training Projects. Applicants are encouraged to include a performance measurement plan and a data management plan in their submissions. The grant guidelines emphasize transparency, cultural relevance in outreach, and collaboration with diverse communities. Selected applicants will be required to attend annual meetings and submit regular progress reports.

For further details, interested parties should consult the application instructions in the YFSEC Request for Applications document and register early with Grants.gov to meet submission deadlines. Technical assistance and additional resources are available through NIFA contacts and online support services.