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Closed on Oct 15, 2026

Higher Education Challenge Grants Program

National Institute of Food and Agriculture · Opportunity number USDA-NIFA-CGP-011315

Details summarized from the official notice as of Oct 15, 2026. Always confirm eligibility, deadlines and requirements in the official notice before applying.

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This opportunity is closed as of Oct 15, 2026. It is kept here for reference. See the related open opportunities below, or check the official listing in case the agency posts a new cycle.

Key facts

Opportunity numberUSDA-NIFA-CGP-011315
AgencyNational Institute of Food and Agriculture
Department of Agriculture
Assistance listing (ALN, formerly CFDA)10.217
PostedAug 5, 2026
DeadlineOct 15, 2026
Award ceiling$750,000
Award floor$150,000
Expected number of awards36
Estimated total program funding$5,700,000
Cost sharing or matching requiredNo
Funding typeGrant
CategoryAgriculture
Last updated hereOct 15, 2026

Summary from the notice

The purpose of HEC, under assistance listing 10.217, is to strengthen institutional capacities, including curriculum, faculty, scientific instrumentation, and student recruitment and retention. The HEC program is focused on developing and improving formal master’s or doctorate degree-level food and agricultural sciences education and first professional degree-level education in veterinary medicine, such as a doctorate in veterinary medicine (DVM). 


Who can apply

The official notice lists these applicant types as eligible:

  • Others named in the notice (see the eligibility text)

Not listed as eligible

  • Small businesses
  • Nonprofits
  • Colleges and universities
  • State governments
  • Local governments
  • Tribal governments and organizations
  • Larger for-profit companies
  • Individuals

Unless the eligibility text in the notice names you, this opportunity is probably not for you.

Eligibility details from the notice

Eligibility Requirements Land-grant Institutions and other colleges and universities having a demonstrable capacity to carry out the teaching of food and agricultural sciences and confer a graduate degree in at least one discipline or area of food and agricultural sciences are eligible to apply. Institutions offering degrees should be accredited by an agency or association recognized by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education. Research foundations maintained by an eligible college or university are eligible. Award recipients may subcontract to organizations not eligible to apply, provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the project. Individuals are not eligible to apply for these grants to support their own graduate education.

Registrations you will likely need

Most applications submitted through Grants.gov need the following. Registration can take several weeks, so start early. The notice lists the exact requirements.

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