FY18 SBIR Phase I RFA.pdf

Small Business Innovation Research

Program Phase I

FY 2018 Request for Applications (RFA)

APPLICATION DEADLINE: October 5, 2017

ELIGIBILITY: See Part III, A of RFA

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE; U.S. DEPARTMENT OF

AGRICULTURE

Small Business Innovation Research Program Phase I

PHASE I ANNOUNCEMENT

CATALOG OF FEDERAL DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE: This program is listed in the

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance under 10.212 Small Business Innovation Research.

DATES: Applications must be received by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on October 5, 2017.

Applications received after this deadline will normally not be considered for funding (see Part

IV, C of this RFA). Comments regarding this request for applications (RFA) are requested within six months from the issuance of this notice. Comments received after that date will be considered to the extent practicable.

STAKEHOLDER INPUT: We at the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) seek your comments about this RFA. We will consider your comments when we develop the next

RFA for the program, if applicable, and we’ll use them to meet the requirements of section

103(c)(2) of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C.

7613(c)(2)). Submit your written stakeholder comments by the deadline set forth in the DATES portion of this notice via email to Policy@nifa.usda.gov. (This email address is only for receiving comments regarding this RFA and not for requesting information or forms.) In your comments, please state that you are responding to the Small Business Innovation

Research Program – Phase I RFA.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: NIFA requests applications for the Small Business Innovation

Research (SBIR) Program Phase I for fiscal year (FY) 2018. This RFA is being released prior to the passage of an appropriations act for FY 2018. Enactment of additional continuing resolutions or an appropriations act may affect the availability, level of funding or cause potential funding delays for this program.

This notice identifies the objectives for SBIR Phase I projects, deadline dates, funding information, eligibility criteria for projects and applicants, and application forms and associated instructions needed to apply for a SBIR Phase I grant.

mailto:Policy@nifa.usda.gov

Table of Contents

PART I—FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority and Background B. Purpose and Priorities C. SBIR Phase I topic areas D. Three-phase Program E. Potential Commercial Outcome

PART II—AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding B. Types of Applications C. Project Types D. Responsible and Ethical Conduct of Research

PART III—ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligible Applicants

PART IV—APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

A. Electronic Application Package B. Small Business Administration (SBA) Registration C. Content and Form of Application Submission D. Submission Dates and Times E. Other Submission Requirements

PART V—APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. General B. Evaluation Criteria C. Conflicts of Interest, Confidentiality D. Proprietary Information E. Rights in Technical Data F. Copyrights G. Patents and Inventions H. Research Involving Special Considerations I. Grantee Commitments J. Additional Information K. Organizational Management Information L. Application Disposition

PART VI—AWARD ADMINISTRATION

A. General B. Award Notice C. Administrative and National Policy Requirements D. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements

PART VII—AGENCY CONTACTS

PART VIII—OTHER INFORMATION

A. Use of Funds; Changes B. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards C. Regulatory Information D. Definitions E. Materials Available on the Internet

PART I—FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority and Background

The Small Business Innovation Research program was established under the Small Business

Innovation Development Act of 1982 (P.L. 97-219) with the purpose of strengthening the role of innovative small business concerns in Federally-funded research and development (R&D).

In December 2000, Congress passed the Small Business Research and Development

Enhancement Act (P.L. 102-564). The program was reauthorized until September 30, 2008 by the Small Business Reauthorization Act of 2000 (P.L. 106-554). Subsequently, Congress passed numerous extensions and authorizations, the most recent of which extends the SBIR program through 2022.

This program is administered by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) of the

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

This program is subject to the provisions found at 7 CFR Part 3403. These provisions set forth procedures to be followed when submitting grant applications, rules governing the evaluation of applications and the awarding of grants and regulations relating to the post-award administration of grant projects.

B. Purpose and Priorities

The USDA NIFA invites science-based small business firms to submit research applications under this program solicitation entitled “Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) -

Phase I, Fiscal Year 2018.” Firms with strong scientific research capabilities in any of the topic areas described in Part I are encouraged to participate. USDA NIFA will support high-quality research or research and development (R/R&D) applications containing advanced concepts related to important scientific problems and opportunities that could lead to significant public benefit and commercialization of an innovation.

Objectives of the SBIR program include stimulating technological innovation in the private sector, strengthening the role of small businesses in meeting Federal research and development needs, increasing private sector commercialization of innovations derived from USDA-supported research and development efforts, and fostering and encouraging participation by women-owned and socially and economically disadvantaged small business firms in technological innovation.

This SBIR RFA aligns with Strategic Goal 1. (Objecties1.1, 1.2 and 1.3); Strategic Goal 2.

(Objectives 2.1, 2.3, and 2.4); Strategic Goal 3. (Objective 3.1 and 3.2); and Strategic Goal 4.

(Objectives 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 and 4.4) of the USDA Strategic Plan found at https://www.ocfo.usda.gov/usdasp/sp2014/usda-strategic-plan-fy-2014-2018.pdf. This SBIR

RFA aligns with the USDA Research, Education, and Economics (REE Action Plan) by addressing Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 found at (http://nifa.usda.gov/resource/ree-action-plan).

https://www.ocfo.usda.gov/usdasp/sp2014/usda-strategic-plan-fy-2014-2018.pdf http://nifa.usda.gov/resource/ree-action-plan

USDA NIFA SBIR Program is aligned with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture

(NIFA) Strategic Plan (http://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-strategic-plan-fy2014-fy2018) and specifically addresses Goal 1 (sub-goal 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7).

C. SBIR Phase I topic areas

Applicants are encouraged to submit applications that address the research priorities stated for each topic area described in this RFA (see topic areas 8.1 through 8.13 below). Applicants are encouraged to indicate in their application if the proposed research aligns with agriculturally– related manufacturing technology, energy efficiency and alternative and renewable energy or if there is an alignment with NIFA Strategic Plan Goal 1 Science; see Part 1B. Applicants should pay attention to specific instructions located within each of the topic area descriptions when developing their application. Each topic area description provides background information, FY

2018 research priorities and other key information. Although applicants should apply to the topic area they deem most appropriate, USDA NIFA reserves the right to shift applications between topic areas when necessary to achieve the most effective review. If an application is shifted from one topic area to another, NIFA will notify the applicant. All Phase I applications should give the reviewing community a brief vision of where the PD expects the project to be at the end of Phase

II (entering Phase III commercialization). Applications exceeding the budget limitation or exceeding the page limit or not meeting the formatting requirements will be excluded from NIFA review. Questions regarding the suitability of research for a specific topic area should be directed to the appropriate National Program Leader (NPL) identified in the topic area below.

8.1 Forests and Related Resources

Contact Dr. Charles Cleland, NPL for SBIR Forests and Related Resources at ccleland@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 401-6852 regarding questions about the topic area or to arrange a telephone consultation.

Background

The Forests and Related Resources topic area aims to address the health, diversity and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations through the development of environmentally sound approaches to increase productivity of forest lands, improve sustainability of forest resources, and develop value-added materials derived from woody resources. New technologies are needed to enhance the protection of the Nation’s forested lands and forest resources and help to ensure the continued existence of healthy and productive forest ecosystems. Proposals focused on sustainable bioenergy and development of value-added biofuels from woody biomass, and on the influence of climate change on forest health and productivity are strongly encouraged. Proposals that utilize nanotechnology in their approach to developing new wood-based products or that utilize wood-based nano-materials are also encouraged.

To meet the identified needs in forestry and wood utilization, the program’s long-term goals

(10 years) are to achieve increased utilization of woody resources for value-added products from wood; healthy and sustainable forest ecosystems that are more resilient to wildfires and http://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-strategic-plan-fy2014-fy2018 mailto:ccleland@csrees.usda.gov the impact of pathogens and insects; improved environmental and economic methods of sustainable harvesting; and improved growth and yield of forest species that will lead to more efficient use of forested lands. This topic area meets the NIFA Strategic Goal 1: Science;

Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-GOAL

1.2: Advance the development and delivery of science for agricultural, forest, and range systems adapted to climate variability and to mitigate climate impacts; and SUB-GOAL 1.3:

Optimize the production of goods and services from working lands while protecting the

Nation’s natural resource base and environment.

FY 2018 Research Priorities:

Examples of appropriate subtopics for research applications from small businesses include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Growth and Yield

Improving growing stock, tissue culture, genetic manipulation or vegetative reproduction of forest trees, and other means of increasing the regenerative abilities of forests;

developing systems to increase the survival of newly planted trees through mechanical, physical or chemical means that are environmentally safe and through improved nutrient/water utilization; reducing the adverse impact of pathogens and insects by developing better methods to monitor infestations and improved control strategies for combating insects and pathogens that attack important woody species.

2. Increasing the Utility of Forest-Grown Material

Research to improve the yield of lumber, pulp fiber and specialty chemicals from trees;

utilizing a greater percentage of the tree through improved techniques of production, for the creation of new or improved reconstituted products; developing better methods for manufacturing wood-based products and testing products for performance and durability;

and developing improved methods for the production of paper.

3. Reducing Ecological Damage by Forest Operations

Research to reduce soil erosion, compaction, water degradation or other alterations caused by harvesting and/or other forest operations, provisions for the economic recovery of resources from forests while raising potential productivity and reducing impacts to the ecological structure of the area of operation.

4. Urban Forestry

Research to promote the growth of forested land in urban areas, such as greenways, parks, and strategically planted urban trees, to address problems of forest fragmentation, the introduction of invasive species, and the impact of urban forested land on air and water quality and quality of life improvements.

5. Climate Change

Research to address the issue of ecosystem adaptation to climate change, ways to enhance carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, development of decision support tools for forest managers and markets for forest ecosystem services.

6. Developing Technology that Facilitates the Management of Wildfires on Forest Lands

Research that provides systems for detecting and managing wildfires; systems for reducing fuel loads in forests; tools and equipment for improving the efficacy and safety of fire fighters on the ground and in the air; and communication and navigation systems for improving the coordination of fire management activities.

7. Sustainable Bioenergy and Development of Value-Added Products From Forest

Resources Research for development of improved methods for the conversion of forest biomass into cellulosic biofuels (e.g. ethanol, biobutanol, jet aviation) and biobased products, including intermediate chemicals; development of new wood-based composite materials; development of local scale energy conversion projects that generate electricity and/or useful heat; and development of technologies that will mitigate carbon release from combustion.

Other Key Information

The applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the NPL regarding the suitability of research topics.

Applications that deal with the development of biofuels derived from non-woody agricultural crops should be submitted under topic area 8.8 Biofuels and Biobased

Products.

8.2 Plant Production and Protection - Biology

Contact Dr. Robert Nowierski, NPL for SBIR Plant Production and Protection - Biology at rnowierski@nifa.usda.gov or (202)401-4900 regarding questions about the suitability of research topics or to arrange a telephone consultation.

The objective of this topic area is to examine novel ways of enhancing crop production and protection by applying biological approaches to develop new methods for plant improvement, apply traditional plant breeding methods and new technologies to develop new food and non-food crop plants, develop plant characteristics that reduce the harmful impact of plant pests and biotic stresses, as well as new genotypes of existing crop plants with characteristics that allow for their use in new commercial applications. This topic area supports the NIFA Strategic Plan

Goal 1 Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs;

SUB-GOAL 1.1: Advance our Nation’s ability to achieve global food security and fight hunger.

but are not limited to the following:

mailto:rnowierski@nifa.usda.gov

1. Plant improvement

Improved crop production using traditional plant breeding and biotechnology, including but not limited to, molecular biology, and mutagenesis, genomics, tissue culture, and/or embryogenesis to produce crops with new or improved quality, yield, agronomic, horticultural, value- added, and/or economic traits. Topics may include, but not limited to:

a. Improvement of commercial floriculture production Biological and/or technological approaches to improve the competitiveness of U.S.

production of flowering potted plants, bedding plants, seasonal crops, annuals, perennials, and cut flowers.

b. Development of new crops Development of new crop plants as sources of food, non-food industrial or ornamental products.

2. Pollinators and crop production

Projects that address the health and success of domesticated and natural pollinators of economically important crops.

3. Plant protection against abiotic and/or biotic stresses

Reduced the impact of plant pathogens, insect pests, and abiotic stress on crop plants; and increasing plant resistance to plant pathogens, insect pests, and abiotic stress. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

a. Improved plant disease diagnostics

Accurate, rapid, and cost-effective identification of causal agents in specialty crop plants at the earliest possible stage relative to manifestation of disease.

b. Bio-Based approaches

To protect organically-grown crops from insect and nematode pests and diseases, including the development of decision aid systems that are information extensive and time sensitive.

Phase I applications involving the development of transgenic crops would benefit by the inclusion of a brief description of the proposed path to commercialization, including an understanding of what will be needed to clear regulatory consideration. Phase II applications involving the development of transgenic crops should have an expanded section on how regulatory considerations will be met and market entry attained.

Applications that deal with non-biological engineering technologies should be sent to topic area 8.13 Plant Production and Protection-Engineering.

Applications that deal with the genetic improvement and production of woody biomass feedstock crops should be submitted to the 8.1 Forest and Related Resources topic area.

Applications that deal with the genetic improvement and production of algae should be submitted to the 8.7 Aquaculture topic area.

8.3 Animal Production and Protection

Contact Dr. Robert Smith, NPL for SBIR Animal Production and Protection at rsmith@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 401-4892 regarding questions about the topic area or to

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations predicts that feeding the world’s growing population will require a doubling of global food production by 2050.

Fulfilling this need will require new technologies to improve both productivity and efficiency of food animals. The Animal Production and Protection topic area aims to develop innovative, marketable technologies that will provide significant benefit to the production and protection of agricultural animals. New technologies for rapid detection, treatment and prevention of disease are needed to improve productivity and enhance the biosecurity of our herds and flocks. Better technologies are also needed to develop and enhance alternatives to the use of antibiotics since pathogen resistance and human sensitivity to residue food products derived from animals have become of increasing concern. To meet increasing consumer demand for value-added animal products, innovative technologies are needed to address the challenges presented by non-conventional management systems and strategies. And there is an urgent need for technologies that decrease the impact of animal agriculture on the environment and optimize use of our natural resources. Technological advances in animal production and protection will not only enhance the safety of the Nation’s food supply and contribute to environmental stewardship, they will also allow American producers to remain competitive in the global marketplace and contribute to global food security. This topic area supports the NIFA Strategic Plan Goal 1

Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-

GOAL 1.1: Advance our Nation’s ability to achieve global food security and fight hunger.

Development of marketable technologies designed for use in agriculturally important animals that will:

1. Improve production efficiency

Areas of interest include improved fertility; increased feed efficiency; and translation of genomic information into practical use and benefit.

2. Improve the safety and/or quality of end products derived from animals

These technologies must be applicable in the pre-harvest environment.

3. Improve animal health and well-being

Examples of these technologies include new diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines and other immunization methods, biosecurity management tools, traceability methods, and animal handling methods and developing alternatives to the use of antibiotics.

mailto:rsmith@nifa.usda.gov

4. Improve the productivity of animals in modified conventional or alternative animal production systems

Examples include non-confinement housing, pasture-based feeding systems, and organic systems.

5. Mitigate the impacts of animal agriculture on the natural environment

Areas of interest include technologies that decrease greenhouse gas emissions or reduce the excretion of phosphorus and nitrogen, but does not include manure management.

Applications that deal with post-harvest technologies for products derived from animals will not be accepted for review under this program area. Applications that deal with post-harvest technologies for foods derived from animals may be submitted under topic area

8.5 Food Science and Nutrition.

Applications dealing with aquaculture species should be submitted under topic area 8.7

Aquaculture.

8.4 Air, Water and Soils

Contact Dr. Karelyn Cruz, National Program Leader for SBIR Air, Water and Soils at karelyn.cruz@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 604-7742 regarding questions about the topic area or to

The Air, Water and Soils topic area aims to develop and commercialize technologies and innovations for conserving, monitoring and protecting air, water and soil resources while sustaining optimal farm and forest productivity. Climate variability, natural resources conservation (air, water and soils) and food security are major focal points of this topic area.

We encourage new technologies and innovations that will help improve soil; reduce soil erosion; improve water and air quality; enable plant and animal production systems to adapt to changing climatic conditions; and conserve and use water more efficiently. This topic area supports the NIFA Strategic Plan Goal 1 Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-GOAL 1.2: Advance the development and delivery of science for agricultural, forest, and range systems adapted to climate variability and to mitigate climate impacts; and SUB-GOAL 1.3: Optimize the production of goods and services from working lands while protecting the Nation’s natural resource base and environment.

but are not limited to, the following:

1. Water Quality and Conservation mailto:karelyn.cruz@nifa.usda.gov

Develop new and improved technologies to optimize water management conservation at both the farm level and at a watershed scale, monitor the quality of surface water and groundwater resources for biotic and abiotic pollutants, including animal manure and pharmaceuticals, develop improved methods for the reuse of waste water, including the remediation and restoration of water resources that impact agriculture and forestry operations, and promote watershed restoration.

2. Irrigation

Develop improved irrigation technologies for both farming and landscaping applications that will provide more efficient and cost-effective delivery of water and chemicals. Develop new irrigation methods that allow for more efficient use of water including accurate delivery of water to where it is needed.

3. Soil Erosion

Develop better methods for preventing soil erosion by wind and surface water runoff and for monitoring wind erosion and sediment transport.

4. Soil Health

Develop new technologies for measuring soil physical, chemical and biological properties including, but not limited to, soil nutrient content, microbial functional activity related to nutrient cycling, methods to remediate degraded soils and the physical and chemical structure of soil.

5. Air Resources

Develop new and improved technologies to monitor air quality and reduce air pollution stemming from agricultural enterprises, including manures from livestock and poultry production systems.

8.5 Food Science and Nutrition

Contact Dr. Jodi Williams, NPL for SBIR Food Science and Nutrition at jwilliams@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 720-6145 regarding questions about the topic area or to

The Food Science and Nutrition topic area aims to fund projects that support research focusing on developing new and improved processes, technologies, or services that address emerging food safety, food processing and nutrition issues. The program will fund projects to: 1) increase the understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of food; 2) improve methods for the processing and packaging of food products to improve the quality and nutritional value of foods; and 3) develop programs or products that increase the consumption mailto:jwilliams@nifa.usda.gov of healthy foods and reduce childhood obesity. The outcome of a successful project is a proof of concept for a marketable item or patented process.

The long term goals (10 years) of the program are to commercialize the production of useful new food products, processes, materials, and systems that reduce food-borne illness, obesity and enhance the nutritional quality and value of foods. This topic area supports the NIFA

Strategic Plan Goal 1 Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-GOAL 1.1: Advance our Nation’s ability to achieve global food security and fight hunger; SUB-GOAL 1.5: Combat childhood obesity by ensuring the availability of affordable, nutritious food and providing individuals and families science-based nutritional guidance; and SUB-GOAL 1.6: Reduce the incidence of food-borne illness and provide a safer food supply.

but are not limited to, the following:

1. Food Safety

Developing technologies for the rapid detection of food borne hazards

(microorganisms, chemicals, toxins) during pre- and post-harvest processing and distribution.

2. Food Quality-Engineering

Developing innovative food processing and packaging technologies and materials that reduce post- harvest losses in produce while maintaining safety and quality.

3. Food Quality-Science

Understanding the physical, biological, and chemical interactions and functionality of food in order to develop affordable food ingredients and/or food formulations that contribute to the development of high quality foods.

4. Nutrition-Education

Developing and implementing interactive programs for nutrition educators and teachers to increase nutrition awareness and improve health to address obesity among children.

5. Nutrition-Science

Improve functionality and efficacy of foods, nutrients and/or dietary bioactive components in promoting health.

6. Nutrition, Food Safety and Quality Data Tools

Development of software tools and technologies that collect and analyze nutrient data, food safety and food quality data.

Improvements of current commercial methods should address high false positive and high false negative rates associated with PCR based methods for detection of food borne pathogens in produce and high false negative rates associated with immunoassays for detection of Salmonella.

If proposing a new rapid bacterial detection test, the test should be designed to detect at least 1 colony forming unit (cfu)/25grams of food using approaches that reduce or eliminate enrichment and should be designed to allow for sampling of large volumes of food.

Projects that promote value-added products and processes are encouraged.

Projects that address functional foods to promote health are encouraged.

Projects on novel screening methods for threat agents need strong letters of support from the appropriate Federal agency that will be the end user of the technology.

Projects that focus on technologies for improving cost benefit and model-based analyses, including distribution, warehousing, and retailing systems as they relate to the economy are acceptable.

Applicants who have received previous SBIR funding should address outcomes for those projects.

Projects should include appropriate collaborations with experts in the field of investigation (i.e, a Food Scientist or Nutritionist as a part of the development team for the project).

8.6 Rural and Community Development

Contact Mr. Brent Elrod, NPL for SBIR Rural and Community Development at belrod@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 445-5456 regarding questions about the topic area or to

The objective of this topic area is to improve the quality of life in rural America by creating and commercializing technologies that address important economic and social development issues or challenges in rural America. Projects must explicitly discuss the specific rural problem or opportunity that will be examined and how the proposed technology will successfully address the problem or opportunity. Applications must also include an objective to assess the impacts of the proposed project on the environment or the socio-economic development of rural areas. The applications need not be centered on agriculture, but may be mailto:belrod@nifa.usda.gov focused on any area that has the potential to provide significant benefit to rural Americans.

This topic area supports the NIFA Strategic Plan Goal 1 Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-GOAL 1.7: Ensure the development of human capital, communities, and a diverse workforce through research, education, extension and engagement programs in food and agricultural sciences to support a sustainable agriculture system.

1. Development of services and information and managerial systems that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Local Governments and Public and Private Institutions

Topics may include educational programs, including apps and gaming, which address the specific needs of people in rural areas (e.g., development of entrepreneurship and workforce skills); use of big data in community development planning; new housing designs;

improved health care delivery; appropriate educational, transportation and communication technologies and services; and marketing of new information and technologies.

2. Development of technologies and services that protect or enhance the environment while promoting economic development

Topics may include technologies and services, including proposals to catalyze activities for harnessing big data to synthesize new knowledge, to make predictive decisions, and to foster data-driven innovation in agriculture, ecosystem protection, sustainable practices, food loss and waste reduction, energy conservation, and alternative energy source development – such as wind and solar energy (excluding biofuels).

3. Reducing the vulnerabilities of rural communities from hazards (excluding intentional acts such as terrorism)

Procedures and data-enabled solutions are needed to make rural communities more sustainable to natural or unintentional hazards such as food-borne illnesses, food contamination, droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, climate variability, through better preparation, forecast and warning, response and rebuilding phases of hazard mitigation, including communication.

4. Development of technologies and services that specifically address the needs of youth, the elderly, disabled persons, military veterans, and the low-income sector of the rural population

Efforts are needed that will enhance human capital development, build earnings capacity, increase labor force participation and/or promote job creation to the most vulnerable populations in rural communities, and promote food security, including issues of access to adequate amounts and quality of foods.

5. Increasing opportunities for employment and income generation in rural communities

Topics may include, but are not limited to, creative place making, recreational economies, rural tourism, agri-tourism, e-commerce innovations that connect producers with markets, and off-farm value-added agricultural development.

If funded, projects are expected to enhance the environmental and economic vitality of rural communities. Therefore, applications must contain an objective to assess the impacts of the proposed project on the environment or the socio-economic development of rural areas.

Applications dealing with on-farm production agriculture research should be submitted to topic area 8.12 Small and Medium Sized Farms.

Applications dealing with the development of biofuels and biobased products should be submitted to topic area 8.8 Biofuels and Biobased Products.

8.7 Aquaculture

Contact Dr. Gene Kim, NPL for SBIR Aquaculture at Gene.W.Kim@nifa.usda.gov, (202) 401-

1108 regarding questions about the topic area or to arrange a telephone consultation.

The Aquaculture topic area aims to develop new technologies that will enhance the knowledge and technology base necessary for the expansion of the domestic aquaculture industry as a form of production agriculture. Seafood production from the wild is under increased pressure due to overfishing, and therefore aquaculture is increasingly an important source of farmed seafood and an important contributor to food security. Emphasis is placed on research leading to improved production efficiency and increased competitiveness of private sector, commercial aquaculture in the United States. Studies on commercially important, or potentially important, species of fish, shellfish and aquatic plants from both freshwater and marine environments are included. In this context, new technologies are needed to improve production efficiency, protect aquaculture species against disease, and ensure the safety of farmed seafood.

To meet these identified needs in aquaculture, the program priorities include: improved aquaculture production resulting from improved reproductive efficiency in fish and shellfish;

improved aquaculture production resulting from genetic improvement in fish and shellfish;

improved aquaculture production resulting from improved animal health; improved aquaculture production with reduced water usage and improved production efficiencies; and cost-effective production of algae for use as aquaculture feed and as a source of valuable human food supplements. This topic area supports the NIFA Strategic Plan Goal 1 Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-GOAL 1.3: Optimize mailto:Gene.W.Kim@nifa.usda.gov the production of goods and services from working lands while protecting the Nation’s natural resource base and environment.

1. Reproductive Efficiency

Novel or innovative approaches to improve reproductive efficiency in aquaculture species including: greater control of maturation, ovulation and fertilization; improved gamete and embryo storage; improved larval rearing techniques; enhanced reproductive performance of broodstock; improved methods for cryopreservation of sperm and embryos; and methods to control sex determination.

2. Genetic Improvement

Novel or innovative approaches to improve production efficiency through genetic improvement of aquacultural stocks including: genetic mechanisms of sex determination;

genetic basis for inheritance of commercially important traits, such as growth, cold tolerance, and pathogen susceptibility; identification of major genes affecting performance;

application of molecular biology and genomics and the integration of this technology into breeding programs; and performance evaluation of aquacultural stocks and utilization of crossbreeding and hybridization.

3. Integrated Aquatic Animal Health Management

Novel or innovative approaches to reducing acute and chronic losses related to aquatic animal health in aquaculture production systems through an integrated holistic approach including: physiological stress related to the quality of the aquatic production system;

genetic, environmental, and nutritional components of aquatic health management; control of predation in aquaculture production systems; development of new vaccines or immunization procedures to enhance resistance to infectious diseases and parasites;

development of diagnostic tests for specific diseases that pose a health hazard; and development of improved treatment methods for acute or chronic health problems caused by specific infectious or non- infectious agents, parasites, injuries and chemical and toxic agents.

4. Improved Production Systems and Management Strategies

Novel or innovative approaches to improve existing or alternative production system design and management strategies including: development of biological, engineering and economic design criteria and models; enhancement of water quality in existing production systems through aeration, flow patterns, etc.; characterization, handling and treatment of effluent from aquacultural production systems; improved harvesting methods and strategies; and improved operating efficiencies for recirculation systems.

5. Algal Production Systems

Novel or innovative approaches to improve the efficiency of algal production systems including: identification of new species with improved nutritional profile for use in feeding to other aquacultural species or as a source of valuable human food supplements;

development of improved bioreactor technology; and development of better methods for harvesting algal biomass.

For aquaponics, unless the focus is on developing significant technological improvements, proposals that deal with applying current aquaponics technology should be submitted to 8.12 Small and Mid-Size Farms

Applications that deal with the development of new food products derived from aquaculture species should be submitted under topic area 8.5 Food Science and Nutrition.

8.8 Biofuels and Biobased Products

Contact Dr. Toby Ahrens, NPL for SBIR Biofuels and Biobased Products at toby.ahrens@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 401-6050 regarding questions about the suitability of research topics or to arrange a telephone consultation.

The objective of this topic area is to promote the use of non-food biobased products and biofuels by developing new or improved technologies that will lead to increased competitiveness of value-added products from agricultural materials. This research will lead to new opportunities to diversify agriculture and enhance agriculture’s role as a reliable supplier of raw materials to industry. Historically, appropriate research areas have included: development of improved technology for converting agriculturally derived raw materials into useful industrial products;

development of new products from new industrial crops; and improving the effectiveness or cost-competitiveness of industrial products derived from agricultural materials in comparison to non-agriculturally derived products. In order to enhance the impact of the program, acceptance of applications will be limited to select Research Priority Areas. This topic area supports the NIFA

Strategic Plan Goal 1 Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-GOAL 1.4: Contribute to U.S. energy independence and enhance other agricultural systems through the development of regional systems for the sustainable production of optimal biomass (forests and crops) for the production of bioenergy and value-added bio-based industrial products.

FY2018 Priority Research Areas mailto:ccleland@nifa.usda.gov

Examples of appropriate subtopics for research applications from small businesses include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. New Non-food Biobased Products from New Industrial Crops

Identification of markets and development of new biobased products and processes from new industrial crops or microbes. These products should be economically competitive and have environmental sustainability benefits compared to similar products on the market.

2. New Processes for the Manufacture of Industrial Products, Chemicals, or Biofuels

New processes for the production of biobased industrial products, chemicals, or biofuels that will be competitive with the cost and performance of equivalent petroleum-based products.

Support for biofuel projects includes the sustainable conversion of crops and agricultural residues into biofuels (conventional, cellulosic, or advanced biofuels) or coproducts that will improve the economic feasibility of production of those biofuels. Technologies must seek to minimize adverse environmental impacts such as energy use, water use, harmful byproducts, and life cycle carbon emissions in comparison to incumbent products.

Applications that include software development or other data-intensive technologies are encouraged to apply for topics related to the Priority Research Areas listed above.

Applications that deal with developing value-added biofuels (including ethanol) and biobased products from forest biomass should be sent to the 8.1 Forest and Related

Resources topic area.

Applications that deal with developing biofuels and bioenergy that will improve the sustainability of small and mid-size farms should be sent to the 8.12 Small and Mid-Size

Farms topic area.

Applications that deal with the genetic improvement or production of biomass feedstock crops except for woody biomass and algae should be submitted to the 8.2 Plant

Production and Protection – Biology topic area.

Applications that deal with the genetic improvement, production, or feedstock logistics of woody biomass feedstock crops should be submitted to the 8.1 Forest and Related

Applications that deal with the genetic improvement, production, or feedstock logistics of photosynthetic algae should be submitted to the 8.7 Aquaculture topic area.

Applications that deal with the engineering aspects of the planting, production or post-harvest handling of biomass feedstock crops should be submitted to the 8.13 Plant

Production and Protection – Engineering topic area.

Animal manure and carcass waste are considered acceptable feedstocks for applications to the 8.8 Biofuels and Biobased Products topic area.

Microbial approaches must demonstrate a credible path to industrially-relevant conversion rates, yields, and titers.

8.12 Small and Mid-Size Farms

Contact Dr. Denis Ebodaghe, National Program Leader for SBIR Small and Mid-Size Farms at debodaghe@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 401-4385 regarding questions about the topic area or to

The Small and Mid-Size Farms topic area aims to promote and improve the sustainability and profitability of small and mid-size farms and ranches (where annual sales of agricultural products are less than $250,000 for small farms and $500,000 for mid-size farms - hereafter referred to as small farms). The vast majority of farms in this country are small and they play an important role in the agricultural sector. The viability and sustainability of small farms is important to the Nation’s economy and to the stewardship of our biological and natural resources. While some small farms are located in urban areas, most small farms are located in rural areas, and these farms are critical to sustaining and strengthening the leadership and social fabric of rural communities. Applicants are strongly encouraged to emphasize how their project would contribute to the well-being of rural communities and institutions. In particular, applicants should emphasize how the results of their project would be disseminated to other small farmers and provide benefit to the small farm community.

Food safety, climate change, food security and sustainable bioenergy diversification of agricultural production systems and increased efficiency of farm operations and economies of scale are all important program priorities in this topic area. Additionally these areas meet the

NIFA Strategic Plan Goal 1 Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs SUB-GOAL 1.1: Advance our Nation’s ability to achieve global food security and fight hunger; SUB-GOAL 1.3: Optimize the production of goods and services from working lands while protecting the Nation’s natural resource base and environment; and SUB-

GOAL 1.7: Ensure the development of human capital, communities, and a diverse workforce through research, education, extension and engagement programs in food and agricultural sciences to support a sustainable agriculture system.. Proposals are encouraged that focus on one or more of these priorities and are appropriately scaled so as to apply to the needs and capabilities of small farmers.

To meet these identified needs in the small and mid-size farm sector, the program’s long-term goals (10 years) are to achieve improvements in sustainability and profitability of small farms with increased production of specialty crops and specialty animals; improved farm management skills in small farmers that leads to more sustainable and profitable small farms;

better stewardship of natural resources through adoption of more sustainable farming mailto:DEBODAGHE@nifa.usda.gov practices; enhanced utilization of renewable energy sources and more focus on energy efficiency and energy conservation; and better educated small farmers who are better able to operate their farms on a sustainable and profitable basis.

1. New Agricultural Enterprises

Efforts are needed to develop new agricultural enterprises that are small scale and focused on specialty farm products, both plant and animal, and on innovative ways to market these farm products through direct marketing, such as farmers markets or cooperatives where the financial return to the farmer is optimized or through specialty market outlets that offer a higher financial return. Emphasis is encouraged for organic and natural foods, specialty animal products, such as free-range poultry or natural beef, non-food specialty crops, such as medicinal herbs and value-added food, and non-food products.

2. Development of New Marketing Strategies

Efforts are needed to develop appropriate new strategies for marketing agricultural, forestry and aqua cultural commodities and value-added products produced by small farms in local, regional, national and international markets, including the assessment of consumer demand; identification of desired product characteristics, including packaging and processing methods; development of new and innovative utilization of existing production and processing technologies; and the promotion of efficient assembling, packing, processing, advertising and shipping methods.

3. Farm Management

Efforts are needed to develop tools and skills that are appropriate for small farms that will enhance the efficiency and profitability of small farms. New tools are also needed that will enhance farm safety. Development of new risk management tools to facilitate better planning is needed. Development of improved farm level life-cycle assessment tools that help small to mid-sized farms 1) improve operations through resource efficiency and 2) quantify ecosystem services provided is needed. Innovative ways to promote agro-tourism as a way to enhance farm profitability is encouraged.

4. Natural Resources and Renewable Energy

Efforts are needed to develop farming methods scaled appropriately for small farms that are directed at more efficient use of natural resources. Particular emphasis is needed to develop better ways to utilize renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and geothermal energy, and to promote improved energy efficiency and conservation in farming operations.

5. Educational Outreach

Efforts are needed to develop new tools to ensure that the next generation of small farmers has access to the information and resources they need to operate their small farms on a sustainable and profitable basis.

6. Urban Farming

In recent years there has been increasing interest in the establishment of small farms in urban areas on roof tops, in abandoned building and in vacant lots. Efforts are needed to explore ways to make urban farming more energy efficient, environmentally sustainable and profitable. The most appropriate crops for urban farms need to be determined.

Procedures that would increase the establishment of new urban farms need to be developed.

All Phase I applications should give the reviewing community a brief vision of where the PD expects the project to be at the end of Phase II (entering Phase III commercialization).

For aquaponics, unless the focus is applying current aquaponics technology, proposals that deal with developing significant technological improvements should be submitted to 8.7

Aquaculture.

research topic.

8.13 Plant Production and Protection - Engineering

Contact Dr. Rachel Melnick, National Program Leader for SBIR Plant Production and

Protection Engineering at rmelnick@nifa.usda.gov or (202) 401-4980 regarding questions about the suitability of research topics or to arrange a telephone consultation.

The objective of this topic area is to enhance crop production in both conventional and organic systems by creating and commercializing engineering technologies that enhance system efficiency and profitability and that protect crops from pests and pathogens in economically and environmentally sound ways. Projects that promote energy conservation or efficiency in food and fiber systems are strongly encouraged. Engineering projects must describe the system need;

design specifications, and functionality and reliability; and cost benefit analysis. Where feasible, describe the testing metrics, experimental design, and materials and methods to collect and analyze data on the metrics. This topic area supports the NIFA Strategic Plan Goal 1

Science: Catalyze exemplary and relevant research, education and extension programs; SUB-

GOAL 1.1: Advance our Nation’s ability to achieve global food security and fight hunger;

SUB-GOAL 1.2: Advance the development and delivery of science for agricultural, forest, and range systems adapted to climate variability and to mitigate climate impacts; and SUB-GOAL

1.3: Optimize the production of goods and services from working lands while protecting the

Nation’s natural resource base and environment.

FY 2018 Research Priorities mailto:rmelnick@nifa.usda.gov

1. Improved crop production methods or strategies

Enhance the efficiency of crop production by utilizing innovative methods and equipment for planting, growing and harvesting crop plants that optimize inputs and reduce operational costs. Topics may include but are not limited to:

a. Technologies that enhance commercial horticulture production

Projects to improve the…