FY26-BFRDP-NOFO-P.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity Beginning Farmer and Rancher

Development Program

FUNDING YEAR: Fiscal Year (FY) 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE: June 16, 2026

ANTICIPATED PROGRAM FUNDING: $44,443,140

AVERAGE INDIVIDUAL AWARD

RANGE:

$49,999 - $750,000

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: USDA-NIFA-BFR-011336

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER: 10.311

INITIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture United States Department of Agriculture

Assistance Listing Number (ALN): The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) is listed in the Assistance Listings under number 10.311.

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines Task Description Deadline

Application: 5:00 P.M. Eastern Time, June 16, 2026 [Ref to Part I, C of this NOFO]

Applicants Comments: Within six months from the issuance of this notice (NIFA may not consider comments received after the sixth month)

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), to the extent permitted by law, will no longer make grants or otherwise fund programs or activities that improperly discriminate on the basis of race or sex, including discrimination in the name of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies. Instead, USDA will prioritize merit and efficiency. USDA recognizes programs and initiatives will have the greatest impact when these programs and initiatives put American farmers, ranchers, and foresters first by:

• solving the most pressing challenges they face;

• protecting America’s food, fuel, and fiber supply to enhance national security;

• supporting production of healthy and safe food for consumers;

• expanding and developing domestic markets;

• training the next generation of agriculturalists; and

• fueling innovation to keep American farmers at the forefront of productivity.

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is committed to advancing these principles and encourages applicants to actively engage farmers, ranchers, and foresters when applying for funding opportunities to ensure relevancy and adherence to them. NIFA also encourages agricultural leaders to engage in the peer review panel process to ensure American producers are better served through research, education, and extension activities.

Projects submitted under this NOFO should align with USDA Secretary’s Memorandum 1078- 020 Directive on Departmental Research and Development Priorities:

1. Increasing Profitability of Farmers and Ranchers

2. Expanding Markets and Creating New Uses of U.S. Agricultural Products

3. Protecting the Integrity of American Agriculture from Invasive Species

4. Promoting Soil Health to Regenerate Long-Term Productivity of Land

5. Improving Human Health through Precision Nutrition and Food Quality

Stakeholder Input. NIFA seeks comments on all Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) so it can deliver programs efficiently, effectively, with integrity, and with a focus on customer service. NIFA considers comments to the extent possible when developing NOFOs, and uses comments to help meet the requirements of Section 103(c)(2) of the Agricultural Research, https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf

Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C. 7613(c)(2)). Applicants may submit written comments to Policy@usda.gov. Please use the following subject line: Response to the

BFRDP NOFO.

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:7613%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section7613)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true mailto:Policy@usda.gov

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This NOFO is soliciting applications for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) for the fiscal year (FY) 2026 funding cycle to support the delivery of education, outreach, and technical assistance for beginning farmers and ranchers in the United States and its territories that are entering, establishing, building, and managing successful farm and ranch enterprises. The total funding amount available for FY 2026 is approximately $44,443,140.

This notice identifies the objectives for BFRDP projects, deadlines, funding information, eligibility criteria for projects and applicants, and application forms and associated instructions, and review requirements.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF KEY INFORMATION

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority B. Purpose and Priorities C. Program Area Description

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding B. Application Restrictions C. Project and Grant Types D. Ethical Conduct of Funded Projects

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements B. Cost Sharing or Matching

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application B. Content and Form of the Application C. Funding Restrictions D. Submission Dates and Times

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. NIFA’s Evaluation Process B. Evaluation Criteria C. Organizational Management Information D. Application Disposition

PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

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

PART VII. OTHER INFORMATION

A. Use of Funds and Changes in Budget B. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards C. Regulatory Information D. Language Access Services

APPENDIX I: AGENCY CONTACTS

APPENDIX II: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX III: DEFINITIONS

TABLE OF KEY INFORMATION

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines Table 2: Standard Grants Key Information Table 3: Education Team Grants Key Information Table 4: Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grant Key Information Table 5: Steps to Obtain Application Materials Table 6: Help and Resources Table 7: Key Application Instructions

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) is authorized under 7 U.S.C. 2279(d), as amended, and requires the Secretary of Agriculture to make competitive grants or enter into cooperative agreements to support new and established local and regional training, education, outreach and technical assistance initiatives to increase opportunities for beginning farmers or ranchers in the United States and its territories; establish beginning farmer and rancher education teams; and establish a curriculum and training clearinghouse for beginning farmers and ranchers.

B. Purpose and Priorities The primary goal of BFRDP, under assistance listing number 10.311, is to help beginning farmers and ranchers in the United States and its territories enter and/or improve their successes in farming, ranching, and management of nonindustrial private forest lands, through support for projects that provide education, outreach, and technical assistance to give beginning farmers and ranchers the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to make informed decisions for their operations and enhance their sustainability.

The term “farmer” is used in the broadest sense and may be interpreted to include agricultural farmers, ranchers, and non-industrial private forest owners and managers. The term "beginning farmer or rancher" means a person that:

(A)(i) has not operated a farm or ranch; or

(ii) has operated a farm or ranch for not more than 10 years; and

(B) meets such other criteria as the Secretary may establish.

Applications from partnerships and collaborations that are led by State Cooperative Extension Services; federal, state, municipal or tribal agencies that also include nongovernmental, community-based organizations and school-based educational organizations with expertise in new agricultural producer training and outreach will be given priority.

BFRDP grants may fund programs or services relating to these priorities:

1. Basic livestock, forest management, and crop farming practices;

2. Innovative farm, ranch, and private, nonindustrial forest land transfer and succession strategies;

3. Entrepreneurship and business training;

4. Technical assistance to help beginning farmers or ranchers acquire land from retiring farmers and ranchers;

5. Financial and risk management training, including the acquisition and management of agricultural credit;

6. Natural resource management and planning;

7. Diversification and marketing strategies;

8. Curriculum development;

9. Mentoring, apprenticeships, and internships;

10. Resources and referral;

11. Farm financial benchmarking;

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title%3A7%20section%3A2279%20edition%3Aprelim)%20OR%20(granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title7-section2279)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true

12. Agricultural rehabilitation and vocational training for veteran farmers and ranchers;

13. Farm safety and awareness;

14. Food safety and recordkeeping; and

15. Other similar subject areas of use to beginning farmers or ranchers.

Applicants planning to address other similar subject areas not listed in priorities 1-14 are strongly encouraged to confer with the Program Contacts listed in Appendix I of this NOFO to discuss the suitability of the topics prior to submitting an application.

Target Audience. The target audience for BFRDP is farmers and ranchers who have not operated a farm or ranch or have operated a farm or ranch for not more than ten years.

Applicants must identify as well as define Beginning Farmer and Rancher (BFR) category of trainees to be served. There are five BFR training categories that must be specified based on number of years operating a farm or ranch:

Category I: Has not operated a farm or ranch.

Category II: 1-3 years in farming.

Category III: 4-6 years in farming.

Category IV: 7-10 years in farming.

Category V: Planning to serve trainees in all categories listed.

The BFRDP’s goal is to ensure that participants are adequately equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to sustainably own or lease a farm business operation. Individuals would need to meet the following criteria:

1. Age 18 or older by the completion of the project funding; and

2. Operate a farm or ranch achieving a minimum annual value of $1000 in production.

BFRDP will allocate not less than five percent of the amounts made available for a fiscal year to each of the two subsets of beginning farmers and ranchers.

1. Limited resource beginning farmers and ranchers, as defined by the Secretary; and farmworkers desiring to become farmers or ranchers; and

2. Veteran farmers and ranchers.

For applications to be considered under either of the two subsets, applicants must:

1. Identify the target audience of any of the group(s) identified above and state clearly what percentage of the total project budget will be allocated to serving each group(s).

2. Explain how the beginning farmers and ranchers in the identified target audience will be identified, recruited, and retained.

3. Provided descriptions of what appropriate training, education, outreach, and mentoring will be provided.

4. Document evidence of the applicant’s ability to serve the specific needs of the identified audience (s), e.g., involvement of partner(s) with expertise and a strong track record of having previously done so.

5. Adhere to Executive Order 14151—Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-radical-and-wasteful-government-dei-programs-and-preferencing/

Handling of baseline data and data collection will be addressed in the Data Management Plan (DMP) in accordance with this NOFO.

Additional requirements on expected performance goals, indicators and targets may be required as a condition of award.

To achieve program goals, BFRDP projects will be expected to conduct education, training, outreach and technical assistance for beginning farmers and ranchers on one or more of the topics listed in Part I, B (1-15). Applicants must carefully consider the topics that will be addressed by the proposed project (i.e., clearly identify the topics in the project narrative and why those topics are the most appropriate for the project’s audience). Evidence of farmer input on topic selection is very important. Applicants should make use of existing curriculum (whether USDA funded or not), including entries in the BFRDP curriculum and training clearinghouse:

www.farmanswers.org. The following applications will not be accepted for review if:

a. Applications seek to develop coursework for credit for four-year degrees at colleges and universities;

b. Applications seek to educate students for careers in agriculture other than as farmers or ranchers; or

c. Applications seek to conduct research.

C. Program Area Description NIFA is soliciting applications under the following program award categories:

1. Standard Grants (Small, Medium, Large and Simplified Standard)

2. Education Team Grants

3. Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grant

Standard Grants Table 2: Standard Grants Key Information

Title Description Program Code: BFRDA

Program Code Name: Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, Standard

ALN: 10.311

Project Type: Training and Technical Assistance Grant Type: Standard

Application Deadline June 16, 2026 Grant Duration: 12-36 Months

Anticipated # of Awards: 90 Minimum Award Amount: $49,000 Maximum Award Amount: $750,000

Maximum Total Award

1. Large Standard: No more than $250,000 per year for three years, for a maximum of

$750,000.

2. Medium Standard: No more than $175,000 per year for three years, for a maximum of

$525,000.

http://www.farmanswers.org/

3. Small Standard: No more than $100,000 per year for three years, for a maximum of $300,000.

4. Simplified Standard: No more than $49,999 for one year for a simplified standard grant.

Small, Medium, and Large Standard Grants BFRDP projects support new and established local and regional training, education, outreach, and technical assistance initiatives for beginning farmers and ranchers, on the priority topics listed in Part I, B (1-15). The primary goal of Standard Grants are to increase the number of beginning farmers and ranchers and enhance their success and sustainability by providing them with knowledge, skills, and tools needed to make informed decisions. Standard Grant applications are expected to:

1. Identify the audience of beginning farmers and ranchers they aim to serve describing their characteristics and unique needs;

2. Document the applicant’s knowledge and experience in education and assistance methods to be used that are appropriate and effective in engaging the audience and meeting their needs; and

3. Propose an ambitious yet achievable plan of work that will accomplish meaningful and measurable success in enhancing the number and success of beginning farmers and ranchers.

Small, medium, and large standard grant proposals will be evaluated using the same evaluation criteria (see Part V, B of this NOFO), including collaborations that are led by State Cooperative Extension Services; federal, state, municipal or tribal agencies that also include nongovernmental, community-based organizations and school-based educational organizations with expertise in new agricultural producer training and outreach will be given priority.

Smaller projects’ scope of work is expected to have smaller audiences, limited geographic reach, and less complex collaborative arrangements. This provides an opportunity for smaller or less experienced organizations to propose projects that have smaller budgets and less complex administration. Those with larger award requests will be expected to undertake larger-scale projects, in terms of numbers reached, intensity of training, other services to be provided, and geographic service areas (e.g., statewide, regional, or even national in scale). All standard grant proposals for federal funds should be commensurate with the scope of work.

Successful grant applicants provide training and assistance with business and financial management, as well as production and marketing topics that align with the priority list in Part I, B (1-15) of this NOFO.

Simplified Standard Grants BFRDP projects develop action plans to strengthen program ideas to develop a full proposal;

curriculum development, hands-on materials, as well as develop an advisory committee to strengthen future program activities. Educating and training a small group of individuals to become farmers and ranchers is required.

Simplified standard grants are for applicants with limited capacity to enhance their abilities to create and sustain beginning farmers and ranchers. These grants are designed for new applicants without much experience in coordinating education and technical training.

Simplified Standard grants are intended to assist organizations:

1. Develop and enhance important collaborations and innovative activities relevant to beginning farmer and rancher programs; and

2. Initiate and develop beginning farmer and rancher project ideas to lead to future program success or success in obtaining other grants for beginning farmer and rancher education.

Evaluation criteria for reviewing the simplified standard grants (see Part V, B of this NOFO) are different from those utilized for reviewing small, medium, and large standard grants. Priority for funding under the simplified standard grants will be given to applicants who have not received BFRDP grant funding. This priority does not exclude previous grant recipients from being funded.

Education Team Grants Table 3: Education Team Grants Key Information

Title Description Program Code: BFRDB

Program Code Name: Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, Education Team

ALN: 10.311

Project Type: Training Grant Type: Education Team

Application Deadline June 16, 2026 Grant Duration: 36 Months

Anticipated # of Awards: 2 Minimum Award Amount: $600,000

Approximately $250,000 per year for up to three years, for a maximum of $750,000.

Education Team (ET) Grants BFRDP projects identify gaps in beginning farmer and rancher training by evaluating existing programs, and by developing and conducting train-the-trainer projects to address these gaps.

Additionally, ET projects enhance beginning farmer and rancher efforts based on a particular topic, region, or audience.

ET applications must support the development of curricula and the delivery of education programs and workshops for beginning farmers or ranchers across geographical areas of the United States and its territories; or provide training for trainers and service providers that improve and amplify their work with beginning farmers or ranchers. ET applications should complement previously funded ET projects. Education Teams should involve teams of experts with a wide range of experience (e.g., NGO, CBO, SAEO, farmers, university, and government) to do the following:

1. Identify, collect, and assess existing curricula and programs;

2. Identify gaps, develop, and deliver curricula and train-the-trainer programs to fill the identified gaps; and

3. Collaborate with the BFRDP Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse https://farmanswers.org) and beginning farmers and ranchers’ education providers to enhance successful use of the ET curricula and programs.

Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grant Table 4: Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grant Key Information

Title Description Program Code: BFRDC

Program Code Name: Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse

ALN: 10.311

Project Type: Clearinghouse Grant Type: Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse

Application Deadline June 16, 2026 Grant Duration: 36 Months

Anticipated # of Awards: One every three years Minimum Award Amount: $600,000

Approximately $250,000 per year for up to three years, for a maximum of $750,000.

The purpose of the Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grant (BFRDP Clearinghouse) is to serve as an online platform and library for educational curricula, training materials, technical assistance materials and any other appropriate information for beginning farmers and ranchers. The BFRDP Clearinghouse collaborates and facilitates coordination with BFRDP grantees and other collaborators. Additionally, the BFRDP Clearinghouse assists NIFA leadership in developing and providing an outcome-based reporting system appropriate for use by the BFRDP, provides archival support for all materials and curricula on beginning farmer education and training, and organizes appropriate meetings (both in-person and electronic, i.e., webinars, conference calls) under the direction of NIFA leadership.

Duties of the BFRDP Clearinghouse are as follows:

1. Maintain and enhance an online accessible library for beginning farmer and rancher education, training, mentoring, and outreach materials produced from projects funded through the BFRDP program and through other sources.

2. Maintain a national “one-stop” resource for beginning farmer and ranchers, including online accessible training materials and information. The BFRDP Clearinghouse should provide access or linkages to beginning farmer and rancher education and training materials developed by projects funded through BFRDP and other funding sources.

Materials may be developed by Extension and Land-grant Universities, community-based organizations, nongovernmental organizations, other federal and state agencies, and/or federally funded activities (such as the National Agricultural Library, Ag Risk & Farm Management Library, Extension Foundation , or new communities of practice, etc.) and should contain content useful to beginning farmers and ranchers and the organizations https://farmanswers.org/ that work with them.

3. Facilitate Sharing, Collaboration and Use of Curricula and Information

a. Collaborate with NIFA and all Standard and Education Team (ET) projects grantees in identifying content for the BFRDP Clearinghouse, knowledge gaps, needs, and other appropriate issues.

b. Assist Standard and ET grantees with uploading project resources and outcomes (curricula, tools, success stories, and other information) to the BFRDP Clearinghouse. Provide information on how to access and utilize BFRDP Clearinghouse materials and tools.

c. Provide regular opportunities for sharing and collaborative learning among Standard and ET project grantees.

d. Enhance communication among BFRDP projects through regular communications and information dissemination.

4. Assist in Enhancing Outcome-Based Reporting

a. Collaborate with NIFA and all BFRDP grantees to assist in identifying improvements for documenting the outcomes of funded projects and in the data collection of outcomes and results of BFRDP-supported activities.

b. Assist grantees in organizing and documenting the results of BFRDP projects through the outcome-based reporting system. This system should provide public access to reports and accomplishments of BFRDP projects funded by NIFA as well as projects already in existence. The system should allow Standard and ET projects, nonprofit organizations, and other interested parties to learn from existing projects and build upon successful programs and materials.

c. Develop appropriate communication tools to disseminate information on successful BFRDP projects, ET project activities and other projects of interest to the BFRDP national community. Describe collaborative coordination with NIFA leadership and all Standard and ET projects.

d. Collaborate with USDA-NIFA BFRDP to coordinate the BFRDP annual Project Directors’ Meeting.

5. BFRDP Impact Reports

a. For the first two years of the award, the Clearinghouse will submit an Annual

Impacts/Outcome Report to USDA/NIFA no later than 90 days after the award anniversary date. The report must synthesize information across all active BFRDP projects and provide:

i. Project Outcomes and Impacts: A consolidated summary of outcomes and impacts reported by all active BFRDP projects, including notable trends, innovations, and observed best practices.

b. At the conclusion of three-year award cycle, the Clearinghouse will submit a Three-Year Comprehensive Report that includes:

i. Comprehensive Outcomes and Impacts: A cumulative summary of outcomes, impacts, and measurable changes achieved across all BFRDP projects during the three-year period.

ii. Project Highlights: Case studies or project spotlights demonstrating effective practices, successful models, and innovative approaches supporting beginning farmers and ranchers.

iii. Program Insights and Trends: Analysis of key themes, emerging needs, gaps, and opportunities identified through project reporting and clearinghouse operations.

iv. Recommendations: Evidence-based recommendations to improve BFRDP program delivery, outreach, technical assistance and overall impact.

v. Other USDA-requested Components: Any additional summary analyses or materials requested by USDA.

BFRDP requires Project Directors to participate in Project Director annual meetings.

Annual meetings allow Project Directors to discuss project progress, encourage grantee networking and partnerships, and gain additional knowledge on evaluation methods to strengthen documentation of project outcomes in measurable terms. First-year Project Directors are expected to present upcoming project work via the poster session. Second and third-year Project Directors are expected to present project updates and outcomes via the poster session and/or individual presentations, as determined by the National Program Leader. Noncompliance with attendance and participation in the annual Project Directors meeting may impact future funding.

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The amount available for BFRDP grants is approximately $22,304,840 for FY 2025 and $22,138,300 for FY 2026 for a grand total of $44,443,140 in FY 2026. USDA is not committed to fund any particular application or to make a specific number of awards.

The Automated Standard Application for Payments, operated by the Department of Treasury, Bureau of Fiscal Service, is the designated payment system for awards resulting from this

NOFO.

B. Application Restrictions NIFA will evaluate applications using the criteria described in Part V of this NOFO. All applications for FY 2026 should list September 15, 2026, as the project starting date. In FY 2026, applications may be submitted to BFRDP as one of the following types of requests:

1. New application. New applications will be evaluated using the criteria described in Part V of this NOFO and are subject to the due dates herein (see Appendix III for definition).

This is a project application that has not been previously submitted to BFRDP or an application from a previously funded BFRDP project that has completed its project work and is starting a completely new project.

The new applications from a Project Director (PD) who has received a prior BFRDP award must contain the same information as required for new applications; they also must contain an additional one-page “Accomplishment-Based” narrative (see Part IV B.), including adequacy of plans for continuous improvement. Evaluation of performance during the previous BFRDP grant(s) will include the outcomes achieved and, where appropriate, contributions to the BFRDP Clearinghouse and Project Directors’ Annual Meeting. Noncompliance with attendance and participation in the annual Project Directors meeting may impact future funding.

Note: During the review process, NIFA seeks to meet legislative requirements for geographical distribution to achieve regional balance. To avoid chances of Project Directors providing oversight on two BFRDP grants concurrently, Project Directors of active awards can apply for new BFRDP awards when they are in their final year of project work. It is unallowable to have a new project and at the same time have a project that has not yet been closed out by USDA-NIFA.

2. Resubmitted application. Resubmitted applications must include the response to the previous review panel comments and are subject to the same criteria and due dates herein. Resubmitted applications must enter the NIFA-assigned proposal number of the previously submitted application in the Federal Field (Field 4) on the application form (see Appendix III for definition).

https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm

This is an application that has previously been submitted to BFRDP but not funded.

Project Directors (PDs) must respond to the previous review panel comments; they must include an additional one-page “Response to Previous Review” narrative (see Response to Previous Review, Part IV). Resubmitted applications must be received by the relevant due dates and will be evaluated in competition with other pending applications in the appropriate area to which they are assigned. These applications will be reviewed according to the same evaluation criteria as new applications. Addressing previous comments is important as each year is a new competition. Resubmitting applicants should strengthen their proposals in every way possible.

Please note that research is unallowable in BFRDP.

C. Project and Grant Types The following describes the types of projects or grants that are eligible for funding:

1. Project Types. Applicants must propose a Training and/or Technical Assistance project as described in Part I, C of this NOFO. Only Training and/or Technical Assistance projects described in Part I, C of this NOFO will be considered for review.

2. Grant Types. Applicants must select the Standard Grants, Education Team Grants, or Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grant described in Part I, C of this NOFO. Only Standard, Education Team, or Curriculum Training and Clearinghouse Grants described in Part I, C of this NOFO will be considered for review.

BFRDP applications may not request more than the maximum annual award amount listed for the grant type being applied to with a project period not to exceed 12 months for Simplified Standard or 36 months for Small, Medium, Large Standard, Education Team, or Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grants. Proposal requests exceeding these limits will be excluded from review.

FY 2026 Suggested Project Start and Ending Timeline:

For Simplified Standard: September 15, 2026, through September 15, 2027.

For Small, Medium, or Large Standard, Education Team, and Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse: September 15, 2026, through September 15, 2029.

After the award is made, a no cost extension may be requested for up to 12 months. Please see the NIFA Federal Assistance Policy Guide for additional details.

D. Ethical Conduct of Funded Projects In accordance with sections 2, 3, and 8 of 2 CFR Part 422, institutions that conduct USDA-funded extramural research must foster an atmosphere conducive to research integrity, bear primary responsibility for prevention and detection of research misconduct, and maintain and effectively communicate and train their staff regarding policies and procedures. In the event an application to NIFA results in an award, the Authorized Representative (AR) assures, through acceptance of the award, that the institution will comply with the above requirements. Award recipients must, upon request, make available to NIFA the policies, procedures, and documentation to support the conduct of the training. See Responsible and Ethical Conduct of Research for further information.

https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-federal-assistance-policy-guide https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3f96ab05cf1fc2d2713e5e46755e7696&mc=true&node=pt2.1.422&rgn=div5#se2.1.422_12 https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements Applicants for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) must meet all the requirements discussed in this NOFO. Failure to meet the eligibility criteria by the application deadline may result in exclusion from consideration or, preclude NIFA from making an award. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s About Grants provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

Applications may only be submitted by a collaborative state, tribal, local, or regionally based network or partnership of qualified public and/or private entities. These collaborations may include the following entities: State Cooperative Extension Services; federal, state, municipal or tribal agencies; community-based organizations (CBOs); non-governmental organizations (NGOs); junior and four-year colleges or universities or foundations maintained by a college or university; and private for-profit organizations. Collaboratives led by State Cooperative Extension Services; federal, state, municipal or tribal agencies will be given funding priority.

Application submission of a project effort that is a duplicate of a current beginning farmer project will not be accepted for review under this program.

Incorporating beginning and/or non-beginning farmers and ranchers as part of the collaborative group is strongly encouraged.

Applications submitted by individuals, or by organizations that do not involve other entities in a network or partnership, are not eligible for consideration under any category applicable to the BFRDP and will be excluded from review.

To meet regional balance, multiple awards will not be made to the same organization, institution, or Project Director in the same calendar year. Further, organizations and institutions that have received a regular standard or education team grant in the last funding cycle (FY 2024) are ineligible to apply. To avoid chances of Project Directors providing oversight on two BFRDP grants concurrently, Project Directors of active awards can apply for new BFRDP awards when they are in their final year of project work. It is unallowable to have a new project and at the same time have a project that has not yet been terminated. Please do not apply for another simplified standard grant if you were previously awarded a simplified standard BFRDP grant.

Simplified standard grants are designed for new trainers who have never received grants nor gained more than three years of experience in assisting with the development of beginning farmers and ranchers.

Failure to meet an eligibility criterion by the application deadline may result in the application being excluded from consideration or, if reviewed, will preclude NIFA from making an award.

Award recipients may subcontract to organizations not eligible to apply provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the project.

https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants

USDA will not accept competitive applications for grants proposals for dangerous gain-of-function research, as defined in Section 8 of E.O. 14292.

Duplicate or Multiple Submissions. NIFA will accept the most recent application if an applicant submits duplicate or multiple submissions. For those new to federal financial assistance, NIFA’s Grants Overview provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching Match Required –Applicants MUST provide match from nonfederal sources in the form of cash or in-kind contribution in an amount equal to 25 percent of the funds provided by the grant or cooperative agreement.

Per 7 U.S.C. 2279(d)(5)(B):

(5) Matching requirement

(A) In general Except as provided in subparagraph (B), to be eligible to receive a grant or enter into a cooperative agreement under this subsection, a recipient or participant shall provide a match in the form of cash or in-kind contributions in an amount equal to 25 percent of the funds provided by the grant or cooperative agreement.

(B) Exception The Secretary may waive or reduce the matching requirement in subparagraph

(A) if the Secretary determines such a waiver or modification is necessary to effectively reach an underserved area or population.

If you plan to serve an underserved area or population and would like to request the 25% match waiver, or match modification please enter the following statement, at the top of your budget justification form: “This applicant plans to serve an underserved area or population and would like to request the 25% match waiver” or “match modification” -whichever applies.

See Part IV, B of this NOFO, R&R Budget Federal and Non-Federal, for details on requesting a match-waiver.

Matching funds must be from nonfederal sources except when authorized by statute.

An award will not be issued unless all matching funds over the life of the grant are secured with match support documentation, which will be requested of applicants at the time they are recommended for an award. There can be no contingencies on the matching amount.

The Budget Justification must list matching sources along with the identification of the entity(ies) providing the match as well as the total dollar amount being pledged. However, the applicant is still subject to documentation, valuing and reporting requirements, etc. as specified in 2 CFR Part 200, “Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (the Uniform Guidance),” 7 CFR 3430, “Competitive and Noncompetitive Non-Formula Federal Assistance Programs – General Award Administrative https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/05/08/2025-08266/improving-the-safety-and-security-of-biological-research https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2279%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2279)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=d75dffedf5ba98a96a7afd30a4ba93fe&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5&sp2.1.200.e https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=d75dffedf5ba98a96a7afd30a4ba93fe&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5&sp2.1.200.e https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=76ea83ad01487d50f0c6d653d96a56cb&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=76ea83ad01487d50f0c6d653d96a56cb&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5

Provisions,” and program-specific regulations, as applicable. In instances where match is required, any resulting award will require the signature of an Authorized Representative (AR).

Only when NIFA receives the award signed by the AR will award funds be released and available for draw down.

The applicant must establish the value of matching contributions in accordance with applicable cost principles. Refer to 2 CFR Part 200, “Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, for further guidance and other requirements relating to matching and allowable costs.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=76ea83ad01487d50f0c6d653d96a56cb&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=fa728cb15efc8baf5b0a0a5d514d2010&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=fa728cb15efc8baf5b0a0a5d514d2010&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application Applicants must apply to this NOFO electronically; no other method or response is accepted.

The electronic application for this NOFO and additional resources are available on Grants.gov and Grants 101. Table 5 provides instructions on how to obtain an electronic application. Part III of the NIFA Grants Application Guide contains detailed information regarding the Grants.gov registration process. The NIFA Grants Application Guide is contained in the specific funding opportunity package or a sample of the guide can be found here. When applying for a NIFA award, it is important to reference the version of the guide that is included in the specific funding opportunity application package.

Table 5: Steps to Obtain Application Materials

Steps Action Step One: Register New Users to Grants.gov must register early with Grants.gov prior to submitting an application (Register Here).

Step Two:

Download Adobe

Download and Install Adobe Reader (see Adobe Software Compatibility for basic system requirements).

Step Three: Find Application

Using this funding opportunity number USDA-NIFA-BFR-011336, search for application here: Opportunity Package.

Step Four: Assess Readiness

Contact an AR prior to starting an application to assess the organization’s readiness to submit an electronic application.

Table 6: Help and Resources

Grants.gov Support NIFA Support Grants.gov Online Support Telephone support: 800-518-4726 Toll-Free or 606-545-5035 Email support: support@grants.gov Self-service customer-based support: Grants.gov iPortal Customer service business Hours 24/7, except federal holidays.

Email:

grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov

Business hours: Monday thru Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET, except federal holidays.

B. Content and Form of the Application The NIFA Grants Application Guide is part of the corresponding application package for this NOFO. The NOFO overrides the NIFA Grants Application Guide if there is a discrepancy between the two documents. NIFA will accept subsequent submissions to an application until the application deadline. Applicants that do not meet the application requirements, to include partial applications, risk being excluded from NIFA’s review. NIFA will assign a proposal number to all applications that meet the requirements of this NOFO. Applicants must refer to the proposal number when corresponding with NIFA. Table 7 outlines other key instructions for applicants.

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/learn-grants/grants-101/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/register https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://www.grants.gov/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://grants.gov/applicants/search-for-opportunity-package https://www.grants.gov/support https://www.grants.gov/support mailto:support@grants.gov https://grants-portal.psc.gov/Welcome.aspx?pt=Grants https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/ mailto:grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/

Table 7: Key Application Instructions Instruction References

(All references are to the NIFA Grants Application Guide)

Attachments must be in a portable document format (PDF) format.

Part IV

Check the manifest of submitted files to verify attachments are in the correct format.

Part IV

Conduct an administrative review of the application before submission.

Part IV

Follow the submission instructions. Part IV

Provide an accurate email address, where designated, on the

SF-424 R&R.

Part V

Contact the Grants.gov helpdesk for technical support and keep a record of the correspondence.

N/A

Contact NIFA if applicant does not receive correspondence from NIFA regarding an application within 30 days of the application deadline.

N/A

Note the attachment requirements (e.g., PDF) in Part IV.200 of the NIFA Grants Application Guide. Any proposals that are non-compliant with the requirements (e.g., content format, PDF file format, file name restrictions, and no password protected files) will be at risk of being excluded from the NIFA review. Grants.gov does not check for NIFA required attachments or whether attachments are in PDF format; see Part VI.100 Option 2 of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for how to check the manifest of submitted files. Partial applications will be excluded from NIFA review.

BFRDP FY 2026 Sample Checklist for Standard & Education Team Grant Applications

-*SF 424 R&R Cover Sheet -*SF 424 R&R Project/Performance Site Location(s) -R&R Other Project Information Form Project Summary (PDF) Project Narrative (PDF)

Logic Model (see logic model template) Bibliography & Cited References (PDF) Facilities and Other Resources (PDF) Equipment Documentation (PDF) Other Attachments

Data Management Plan (PDF) Commitment Letters (PDF)

Supplemental Information Form Conflict of Interest List (PDF)

-R&R Senior/Key Person Profile (Expanded) https://www.grants.gov/support https://www.nifa.usda.gov/application-support-templates https://www.nifa.usda.gov/logic-model-planning-process https://www.nifa.usda.gov/data-management-plan-nifa-funded-research-education-extension-projects https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-16-004-bfrdp-sample-commitment-pledge-letters https://www.nifa.usda.gov/application-support-templates

Biographical Sketch(es) (SciENcv-certified Common Form) Current & Pending Support (SciENcv-certified Common Form)

-R&R Personal Data -R&R Budget Match Indirect Costs Budget Justification (PDF) R&R Sub-Award Budget(s)

-*SF 424 R&R: Forms in the Application Package – see instructions in the NIFA Grants

Application Guide.

SF 424 R&R Cover Sheet. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for the required certifications and assurances.

SF 424 R&R Project/Performance Site Location(s). See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide.

R&R Other Project Information Form. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide.

1. Field 7. Project Summary (PS)/Abstract. The PS must show how the project goals align with the project goals of the BFRDP. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for instructions and suggested templates. The PS is limited to 250 words with font size no smaller than 12-point Times New Roman and must use NIFA’s Project Summary Application Template. The PS must be attached as PDF.

The PS must include a description of the problem or opportunity, project objectives, and a description of the effort.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to review the attachment for the 250-word limit and PDF compliance before submission. NIFA will not review applications that exceed the required 250-word limit. The PS must include all the following:

a. Project Title;

b. List of Project Directors (PDs) and Co-PDs and their associated institutions/organizations;

c. Project objectives and projected outcomes;

d. List of all other collaborating institutions/organizations/farmer and rancher groups;

e. Percent of total federal funds requested that are allocated to partnerships and collaborations that are led by State Cooperative Extension Services; federal, state, municipal or tribal agencies that also include nongovernmental, community-based organizations and school-based educational organizations with expertise in new agricultural producer training and outreach;

f. If applicable, percent of budget allocated to serving veteran farmers and ranchers;

and/or percent of budget allocated to serving limited resource, or farmworker audiences; and

g. List of any previous or current BFRDP projects that PD has been a part of leading (list project director and award number 20XX-XXXXX-XXXXX).

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sciencv/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sciencv/

2. Field 8. Project Narrative (PN).

Project Narrative for Small, Medium and Large Standard Grants, Education Team, and Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse Grant Applications. The PN must not exceed 20

1.5 spaced pages of written text and at least 1-inch margins with font size no smaller than 12-point Times New Roman, including all figures and tables (the font size for tables and figures must be no smaller than 11-point Times New Roman). The only exception to the page limit requirement will be found in the directions as noted below under (a) Response to Previous Review for Resubmissions; (b) Prior BFRDP accomplishments; and (f) logic model. The page limits outlined here ensure fair competition. It is encouraged to include a one-page table of contents in the PN, which will not count towards the page limit for the PN. The PN must include all the following:

a. Response to Previous Review for Resubmissions – The response to previous review must not exceed 1 page with line spacing set at 1.5 and at least 1-inch margins with font size no smaller than 12-point Times New Roman. This does not count towards the page limit for the PN. Use the subheading “Response to Previous Review”.

b. Prior BFRDP Accomplishments – If the Project Director (PD) has led prior BFRDP project(s) from the same institution for which they are applying, briefly describe accomplishments and lessons learned, what can be improved, and how those lessons and improvements are being incorporated into the current application to ensure effective and successful program goals. The prior BFRDP accomplishments must not exceed 1 page with line spacing set at 1.5 and at least 1-inch margins with font size no smaller than 12-point Times New Roman. This does not count towards the page limit for the PN. Use the subheading “Prior BFRDP Accomplishments”.

c. Responsiveness to USDA BFRDP Program Priorities – Please indicate if the application has a connection to the BFRDP priorities, Part I, B (1-15). Provide a brief explanation of how the application is related to the area(s) indicated.

d. Background and Rationale – Indicate the overall background, technical approach, and need for the project. Include a clear statement of the long-term goal(s) of the proposed project. Identify the target audience and their needs (size, region, value of sales, structure of the industry (number of small, medium, and large farms), critical barriers, etc.). If helpful, provide a map of the target region. Summarize any similar beginning farmer and rancher education and training programs that are available for the identified target audience, including all programs at www.farmanswers.org.

Farmer Input: Include evidence that beginning farmers and ranchers were involved in conceptualizing the project design and activities.

For Education Team projects, include the rationale for the geographic area, topic, or other appropriate focus of the team and team composition.

All works cited must be referenced in the “Bibliography & Cited References” in this section but will not count towards the page limit for the PN.

For the Curriculum and Training Clearinghouse, briefly describe the technology that will be used to operate the online library and the applicant’s experience in developing and maintaining such a system.

Applicants are encouraged to use approximately two (2) of the 20 pages for this section. Related evaluation criteria (see Part V, B of this NOFO): Relevancy.

e. Objectives and…