The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) have announced the “Nourishing Next Generation Agrifood Breakthroughs” Innovation Challenge. This initiative, unveiled at the Harvesting Hope: USDA’s Agrifood Innovation Symposium by Secretary Tom Vilsack, aims to advance scientific research addressing nutrition security, climate change, and equity. Up to $2 million will be awarded to transdisciplinary teams led by early-career scientists working on high-risk, high-reward projects.

Objectives and Focus

The Innovation Challenge is designed to foster new discoveries in sustainable food production, climate-smart agriculture, and social equity. It targets early-career scientists from diverse institutions, including higher education, non-profits, for-profits, and government-affiliated research agencies. Secretary Vilsack emphasized the importance of innovative solutions to meet the pressing challenges facing the agricultural sector.

“Addressing the complex issues of nutrition security, climate change, and social equity requires fresh perspectives and bold ideas,” Vilsack stated. “This challenge is an opportunity for emerging scientists to contribute to groundbreaking research that can have a lasting impact on our food systems.”

Application Process

Applications for the challenge are due by July 29, 2024. Interested participants can find detailed information and application guidelines on the USDA/FFAR Innovation Challenge webpage. A webinar scheduled for June 13, 2024, will provide additional insights and answer questions from prospective applicants.

Supporting Innovation and Collaboration

The challenge encourages collaborative efforts across disciplines to develop innovative agricultural solutions. By focusing on early-career scientists, the USDA and FFAR aim to cultivate the next generation of leaders in agricultural research, ensuring a sustainable and equitable food future.

“We are excited to support the creative and ambitious ideas that will emerge from this challenge,” said FFAR Executive Director Sally Rockey. “By investing in early-career scientists, we are investing in the future of agriculture and food security.”