Tennessee state university's institute of agricultural and environmental research is dedicated to advancing innovation to meet the most pressing challenges of our time

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded Tennessee State University $10.756 million under the Payments to 1890 Land-Grant Colleges and Tuskegee University program (CFDA 10.205) on October 1, 2025.

The award funds agricultural research, extension services, and educational activities conducted by Tennessee State University's Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Research and College of Agriculture. The funded work spans biodiversity and environmental quality enhancement, agricultural economic viability and agribusiness development, nutrition and food safety innovation, and food, fiber, and energy system sustainability. The institute also trains the next generation of agricultural leaders through this funding.

The award obligates $10.756 million for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2027, with place of performance in Nashville, Tennessee. Tennessee State University, a historically black 1890 land-grant institution, receives the funding as prime recipient through its Research and Sponsored Programs Division.

As a formula grant under the Evans-Allen capacity program for 1890 land-grant institutions, the award follows annual allotment procedures. Recipients must maintain an approved Plan of Work and submit an Annual Report of Accomplishments and Results. Up to 100 percent of funds may be carried over for up to one year after the fiscal year of appropriation with no prior approval required. Standard federal audit and compliance requirements under 2 CFR parts 200 and 400 apply.

TSU is developing solutions that aim to keep U.S. Producers at the forefront of productivity, promote strength and sustainability in our food systems, and enhance the well-being and prosperity of communities in tennessee and across the nation. TSU leverages cutting-edge technologies and faculty expertise to address critical issues through research with long-term, meaningful impact. We focus on 1) enhancing biodiversity and environmental quality: we are safeguarding and enhancing our nation's natural resources for the benefit of current and future generations, through collaboration among researchers, industry, producers, stakeholders, and government; 2) enriching our economy: our programs strengthen the economic viability of all facets of agribusiness and help tennesseans build and protect wealth for themselves and future generations, which in turn boosts the local, state, and national economies; 3) strengthening our health: as a leader in nutrition, animal welfare, and environmental education, we fuel in novations that support the production of healthy, safe food for consumers while promoting the health and well-being of our communities; 4) supporting food, fiber, and energy systems: our work enhances the safety and sustainability of U.S. Food, fuel, and fiber SUP plies and aims to deliver discoveries using a systems approach to agricultural productivity that provides producers with customizable solutions. Evans-allen funding enables the TSU college of agriculture to advance these efforts by conducting a wide range of resea RCH while training the next generation of agricultural leaders. For example, our agribusiness research helps to drive economic growth; expand and develop domestic markets; and equip students, farmers, and stakeholders with the economic and management skills they n EED to adapt to a rapidly changing food system. Current studies include examining how consumer demand for sustainable, upcycled foods is reshaping markets, creating new revenue opportunities, and reducing waste. Our animal science research is dedicated to improving resilience, productivity, and sustainability in livestock systems. By identifying traits and management practices that enhance animal health, fertility, and growth, our scientists are supporting producers in building stronger, more efficient herds. Our food science research advances understanding of how diet and innovation shape health, sustainability, and consumer well-being. We are developing evidence-based strategies to improve nutrition, expand access to healthier choices, and strengthen resilient food systems. Our natural resources research advances sustainable farming systems by improving soil health, optimizing nutrient management, and reducing reliance on chemical inputs. Through innovations such as integrated forages, cover crops, and decision-support tools, our researchers are enhancing productivity while conserving ecosystems and strengthening farm profitability across tennessee and beyond. Our plant science research develops sustainable solutions to protect crops, enhance production systems, and reduce environmental impact by advancing disease detection, pest and weed management, and resource-efficient practices. Such innovations are strengthening plant health, supporting grower profitability, and fostering resilient nursery and crop systems that ensure long-term sustainability. Our family and consumer science research promotes healthier communities by advancing food security, nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being. Through evidence-based interventions and strong partnerships, these efforts are empowering individuals and families to adopt sustainable lifestyle practices that improve their long-term quality of life.