FY26-CPPM-NOFO-P.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity Crop Protection and Pest Management

FUNDING YEAR: Fiscal Year (FY) 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE: July 6, 2026

ANTICIPATED PROGRAM FUNDING: $8,250,000

AVERAGE INDIVIDUAL AWARD

RANGE:

$300,000 - $1,150,000

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: USDA-NIFA-CPPM-011908

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER: 10.329

ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture United States Department of Agriculture

Assistance Listing Number (ALN): The Crop Protection and Pest Management (CPPM) program is listed in the Assistance Listings under number 10.329.

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines

Task Description Deadline

Application: 5:00 P.M. Eastern Time, July 6, 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 https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf comments to help 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)). Applicants may submit written comments to Policy@usda.gov. Please use the following subject line: Response to the Crop Protection and Pest Management NOFO.

Centers of Excellence. Applicants are encouraged to visit the NIFA’s Centers of Excellence (COE) for information on COE designation process, including COE criteria, and a list of programs offering COE opportunities 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 https://nifa.usda.gov/centers-excellence https://nifa.usda.gov/centers-excellence

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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

The purpose of CPPM awards is to enhance the development, adoption, and implementation of innovative and practical IPM technologies, tactics and strategies that address state, regional, and/or national IPM priorities.

The amount available for the CPPM program in FY 2026 for the Applied Research and Development Program (ARDP) and the Regional Coordination Program (RCP) program areas is approximately $4,100,000, and $4,150,000, respectively.

NIFA requests applications to address critical state, regional and national integrated pest management (IPM) needs to ensure food security and respond effectively to other major pest management challenges to US agriculture. The CPPM program supports projects that address these challenges with IPM approaches developed by coordinated state, regional, and national research, and Extension efforts. The impacts of this research and Extension efforts will be increased by the establishment of communication networks and stakeholder participation in setting priorities. In FY 2026, NIFA will only accept competitive applications for funding in the ARDP and RCP program areas of CPPM.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ANNOUNCEMENT

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 C. Centers of Excellence

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application B. Content and Form of the Application C. Funding Restrictions

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. NIFA’s Evaluation Process B. Evaluation Criteria C. Centers of Excellence D. Organizational Management Information E. 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 CONTACT

APPENDIX II: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX III: DEFINITIONS

TABLE OF KEY INFORMATION

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines Table 2: Applied Research and Development Key Information Table 3: Regional Coordination Program Key Information Table 4. Steps to Obtain Application Materials Table 5: Help and Resources Table 5: Key Application Instructions

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority Section 406 of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (AREERA) (7 U.S.C. 7626) as amended authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a competitive grants program that provides funding for integrated, multifunctional agricultural research, extension, and education activities.

B. Purpose and Priorities The purpose of the CPPM program (Assistance Listing 10.329) is to provide funding for integrated, multifunctional agricultural research, Extension, and education activities. The goals and objectives of CPPM are to address high-priority issues related to pests, including insects, nematodes, pathogens, weeds, and other pests, and their management using IPM approaches at the state, regional, and national levels. The CPPM program supports projects that will ensure sufficient food production increase producer profitability, and respond effectively to other pest management challenges with comprehensive IPM approaches. Priority is given to proposals that address management of invasive species. The CPPM program also addresses IPM challenges for existing pest concerns that can be addressed more effectively with new and emerging technologies. The outcomes of the CPPM program are IPM practices and strategies needed to maintain agricultural profitability.

The CPPM program provides support for research to develop and discover new IPM approaches;

extension to disseminate IPM knowledge and improve adoption of IPM practices; and coordination for collaboration of IPM activities at the regional and national levels. CPPM program areas represent a comprehensive approach for developing IPM practices and strategies and extending this new knowledge across many agro-environments through a coordinated national network. It is anticipated that the application of this evidence-based science will have positive outcomes for the agricultural sector and the nation.

In FY 2026, applications to the ARDP program area must address:

ARDP Research Projects – either of the following priorities:

1. Development of individual tools and tactics essential for pest management systems (e.g., biocontrol, cultural/physical/mechanical control, host plant resistance, particularly novel uses of chemicals, monitoring methods, or decision support, etc.).

2. Advanced understanding of how interactions among tactics alter the effectiveness of pest management within agricultural ecosystems.

ARDP Integrated Projects – one or more of the following Extension priorities in addition to one of the above Research priorities:

1. Development of extension materials and information delivery systems for outreach efforts.

2. Implementation of field-scale or on-farm demonstrations.

3. Delivery of IPM extension outreach and training.

RCP Projects CPPM’s RCP program area expects making one award for each of NIFA’s four administrative regions: North Central, Northeastern, Southern, and Western. The RCP award in each region is to fund one regional IPM center. NIFA also anticipates providing additional funding to one https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:7626%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section7626)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true regional IPM center for an optional project supplement to support the IPM information system;

budgets may not exceed $150,000 per year.

RCP Project priorities:

1. Development and Adoption of IPM

• Enhance development and adoption of regional tailored IPM solutions and strategically promote national outcomes for priority pest management issues.

• Promote the overarching National IPM Roadmap goals.

2. Intra- and Inter-Regional IPM Collaboration and Cooperation

• Enhance intra- and inter-regional IPM collaboration and cooperation to ensure efficient use of resources to achieve IPM outcomes identified by the CPPM program.

• Support the development and implementation of IPM on regional and national priorities by facilitating collaboration across states, disciplines, research and Extension communities, commodities, and settings.

• Increase coordination of IPM research, education and Extension efforts and respond to critical, high-priority IPM needs by serving as regional focal points for core regional IPM support services, regional pest management information networks, collaborative team building, and broad-based stakeholder participation.

• Maintain coordination with the respective Regional Association of State Agricultural Experiment Station Director and the Regional Extension Association Director.

• Engage fully with the appropriate regional Hatch Multistate IPM Education/Extension and Research Activities (currently labeled NCERA-222, NEERA-1604, SERA-03, and WERA-1017) and other appropriate IPM-related Hatch Multistate Research Committees to facilitate and obtain regional priority IPM outcomes.

• Coordinate actively with and provide assistance to the Project Directors (PDs) within the region who receive awards from the other two CPPM program areas (ARDP and

EIP).

• Engage with and support the respective regional IR-4 program, the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN), government agencies to further mutual IPM goals.

• Support IPM projects that may require inter- or inter-regional collaborations.

3. IPM Information Networks

• Establish and maintain multi-state information networks.

• Engage with Extension IPM programs and other IPM-related programs and experts operating at the national, regional, state, and local levels.

• Develop the capacity through the IPM information network to review science and regulatory documents related to IPM and to share current pest management information with pest managers and other stakeholders.

4. IPM Partnerships

• Build partnerships to address IPM challenges and opportunities.

• Establish broad-based stakeholder advisory and steering committees to provide an opportunity for research and Extension experts, IPM practitioners, and other stakeholders to identify and prioritize pest management needs, challenges, and opportunities in the respective region.

• Maintain a website listing of current, regional IPM priorities obtained from IPM stakeholders and, as appropriate, engage stakeholders in a regional process to identify and prioritize IPM needs, focus center resources and programs on the identified priorities, and share regional IPM priorities with NIFA annually.

• Use input from a wide variety of sources in the IPM needs prioritization process such as research and Extension faculty including the state Extension IPM coordinators;

multistate research and Extension committees that address pest management issues;

members of IPM-related Extension’s Networks, commodity associations and other groups representing end-users; and public interest groups.

• Work in partnership with appropriate government agencies, private sector organizations, and academic institutions on opportunities for interagency cooperation and shared funding of priority projects.

5. Evaluation of IPM Implementation

• Incorporate assessment and evaluation into IPM center programs to document the outcomes and impacts of IPM research and extension efforts throughout its region, including the aggregation and synthesis of existing information and the generation of new information.

• Review and evaluate impacts of IPM implementation.

• Collaborate with the other regional IPM centers to standardize evaluation metrics.

• Communicate outcomes, impacts, and success stories to key stakeholders, funding organizations, and policy makers.

C. Program Area Description

NIFA is soliciting applications for the ARDP and RCP program areas:

1. Applied Research and Development Program

Table 2: Applied Research and Development Key Information

Title Description Program Code: ARDP

Program Code Name: Applied Research and Development Area

ALN: 10.329

Project Type: Applied Research or Integrated (Research and Extension)

Grant Type: Standard Application Deadline July 6, 2026

Grant Duration: 24-36 Months Anticipated # of Awards: 14-16

Minimum Award Amount: $300,000 Maximum Award Amount: $300,000

a. Program Area Requirements

i. All ARDP applications must include: Stakeholder-Identified IPM Needs.

Include at least one citation that clearly documents the specific stakeholder-identified need(s) addressed by the proposed project. Sources of stakeholder-identified needs include, but are not limited to:

1. Needs identified by the regional IPM centers:

https://www.ipmcenters.org/.

2. Needs identified in Crop Profiles.

3. Needs identified in Pest Management Strategic Plans.

4. Recommendations or reports from state IPM programs.

5. Recommendations from relevant IPM research and/or Extension multi-state committees.

6. Recommendations from other IPM stakeholder groups.

7. Other documented IPM needs assessment evaluations.

ii. Multi-State/U.S. Territory and/or Regional/National Involvement. All applications, including those with PDs from one state or U.S. territory, must clearly describe how the project will provide benefits to more than one state or U.S. territory.

iii. Multi-Disciplinary and Systems-Oriented. Describe how the project will promote cooperative efforts across appropriate disciplines, linkages between research and Extension, and the improvement of existing or emerging integrated pest management systems.

https://www.ipmcenters.org/

iv. Systems Approach. Describe how the proposal will enhance the development, adoption, and implementation of innovative IPM strategies and systems. ARDP seeks applications for developing IPM strategies that integrate multiple pest management tactics, with the primary emphasis on enhancing productivity and profitability.

v. Implementation Plan. Describe, as appropriate, in the project narrative for each project type: 1) how the project will implement results generated by the project with stakeholders, and 2) how the project will measure and assess adoption, implementation, and potential impacts by stakeholders using cost-effective approaches and criteria.

vi. Coordination. Describe the project team’s plans to participate in the appropriate regional Hatch Multistate IPM Education/Extension and Research Activities (e.g., NCERA-222, NEERA-1604, SERA-03, and WERA-1017), other relevant research multi-state projects, and the respective regional IPM center

vii. Partnerships. Describe plans to develop and enhance partnerships that are essential for the success of the project.

viii. Logic Model. Three-Page Limit. This attachment does not count against the 18-page limit for project narratives.

ix. National IPM Roadmap. Address in the project narrative and the project-specific logic model chart applicable goals identified by the National IPM Roadmap for Integrated Pest Management (see National IPM Roadmap).

x. Project Director Workshop. Successful ARDP awardees are required to attend and give a presentation at a Project Director (PD) workshop during the term of their project. The regional IPM centers will organize and conduct these project director workshops in each region.

2. Regional Coordination Program

Table 3: Regional Coordination Program Key Information

Title Description Program Code: RCP

Program Code Name: Regional Coordination Program

ALN: 10.329

Project Type: Regional IPM Center, Optional Supplement for IPM Information System

Grant Type: Standard Application Deadline July 6, 2026

Grant Duration: 44 Months https://www.ars.usda.gov/ARSUserFiles/OPMP/IPM%20Road%20Map%20FINAL.pdf

Anticipated # of Awards: 4 Minimum Award Amount: $1,000,000 per year Maximum Award Amount: $1,150,000 per year

a. Program Area Requirements: RCP applications must address the following requirements:

i. Describe plans to serve as an intra-regional and inter-regional IPM focal point and facilitator.

ii. Describe plans to manage funding resources effectively by establishing processes for: a) managing sub-awards supported by NIFA funding through the regional IPM center award; b) identifying regional priorities; and ensuring that: c) eligible applicants are notified of funding opportunities; and d) funding is distributed in a fair and equitable fashion.

iii. All applicants are required to submit a project-specific logic model (see Other Project Information Form under Part IV § B3).

iv. Develop and enhance collaboration with small- or mid-sized accredited colleges and universities, 1890 Land-grant Institutions, 1994 Land-grant Institutions, Hispanic-serving institutions, Hispanic-serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities, and appropriate other institutions that contribute to or support U.S. pest management issues.

v. Address the needs of selected audiences; and include support for at least one center team member to attend bi-annual leadership meetings and the International IPM Symposium to report on regional IPM center activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts.

vi. Build on the capacity of universities in the region to support IPM and the expanded responsiveness resulting from past regional IPM center programs.

b. RCP Optional Project Supplement for an IPM Information System: As part of an

RCP proposal, applicants may include a request for funding to develop and maintain a national IPM information system to serve as a resource for IPM researchers, extension staff, educators, and practitioners. The following are requirements for an Optional Project Supplement:

i. Describe plans to deliver IPM information regionally and nationally to a wide variety of stakeholders and customers through an improved web presence.

Include and highlight IPM information produced by NIFA-supported IPM programs in addition to information currently posted at The USDA Regional IPM Centers.

ii. Provide a logic model-based report software for use in reporting outputs, outcomes, and impacts of NIFA-supported IPM research, education and Extension projects. See Integrated Programs' Logic Model Planning Process for definitions of evaluation terms including outputs, outcomes, and changes in knowledge, behavior, and condition.

iii. Provide web-based networking tools for IPM research and Extension personnel.

iv. Collect and synthesize impact information from NIFA-supported projects for incorporation in the interagency IPM Project Database.

https://www.ipmcenters.org/ https://www.ipmcenters.org/ https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/integrated-programs-logic-model-planning-process

v. Serve as a key reference and information support tool for cataloging and setting IPM program priorities.

vi. Demonstrate the ability to develop and maintain a cooperative working relationship with the wide range of IPM research and Extension programs supported by NIFA listed in Part I § C and listed in the CPPM programmatic logic model of this NOFO.

vii. Describe how the proposed objectives and approach for the proposed IPM information system will achieve IPM information objectives and goals as described in Part I § C, of this NOFO.

viii. Describe a plan to analyze web information at least quarterly, determine required actions, and delegate responsibilities to update information.

ix. Describe a plan to provide for the continuity of current databases and preparation of a transition plan that documents the resources and steps needed to transfer key databases to alternate host sites if funding resources become unavailable for future maintenance of the IPM information system.

x. Submit a separate project-specific logic model chart (this one is in addition to the logic model for the regional IPM center) (see R&R Other Project Information Form in Part IV § B).

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The amount available for ARDP in FY 2026 is approximately $4,100,000 to fund new competitive projects. The amount available for RCP in FY 2026 is approximately $4,150,000 to fund the first year of new competitive projects. 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. Application for FY 2026 is limited to the following application types:

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).

2. Resubmitted application: Resubmitted applications must include the response to the previous review panel summary and are subject to the same criteria and due dates herein.

Resubmitted applicants 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).

C. Project and Grant Types All grants are of standard type.

ARDP projects that are eligible for funding include:

1. Applied Research projects develop innovative IPM technologies, tactics, strategies, and systems that address regional and/or national IPM priorities.

2. Integrated projects enhance the adoption of innovative IPM strategies and systems and must include research and Extension components/objectives.

RCP projects that are eligible for funding are coordinated/extension-based. Applicants must propose a Regional IPM Center with the option of a supplement for an IPM Information System.

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.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm 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 CPPM program 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 colleges and universities (as defined by Section 1404 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C.

3103(4)), as amended, Hispanic-serving agricultural colleges and universities, (7 U.S.C.

3103(10)), and 1994 Institutions (7 U.S.C 301 note).

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

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

Duplicate or Multiple Submissions – duplicate or multiple submissions are not allowed. NIFA will disqualify both applications if an applicant submits duplicate or multiple submissions.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching Match Required – Applicants MUST provide matching contributions on a dollar-for-dollar basis for all Federal funds awarded under the CPPM program. NIFA may waive the matching funds requirement for a grant if one of the following applies:

1. The results of the project, while of particular benefit to a specific agricultural commodity, are likely to be applicable to agricultural commodities generally; or

2. The project involves a minor commodity, the project deals with scientifically important research, and the grant recipient is unable to satisfy the matching funds requirement.

C. Centers of Excellence Pursuant to Section 7214 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (7 U.S.C. 5926), NIFA will recognize and prioritize COE applicants that carry out research, extension, and education activities that relate to the food and agricultural sciences. A COE is composed of one or more of the following entities that provide financial or in-kind support to the COE. (This list is not all-inclusive and is subject to change based on legislative authority. You may edit this section as applicable. See COEs for the 1890s in the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 for additional COEs).

1. State agricultural experiment stations.

2. Colleges and universities.

3. University research foundations.

4. Other research institutions and organizations.

5. Federal agencies.

6. National laboratories.

7. Private organizations, foundations, or corporations.

8. Individuals; or https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3103%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section3103)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3103%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section3103)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/programs/hispanic-serving-institutions-education-grants-hsi-program/hispanic-serving-agricultural-colleges-universities-hsacu https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/programs/hispanic-serving-institutions-education-grants-hsi-program/hispanic-serving-agricultural-colleges-universities-hsacu https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:301%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section301)&f=treesort&num=0&edition=prelim 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:5926%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section5926)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true

9. Any group consisting of two or more of the entities described in (1) through (8).

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 4. 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 ).

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-CPPM-011908 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 5: 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. 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.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ 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/ https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide

Table 6: 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 30/45/60/90 (modify this number as necessary) days of the application deadline.

N/A

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 CPPM program. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for instructions and suggested templates. The project summary must indicate which specific FY 2026 program area and/or project type the proposed project addresses. RCP application must indicate whether the application includes the optional program supplement for the IMP information system.

2. Field 8. Project Narrative (PN). The PN must not exceed 18 1.5-spaced pages of written text, figures, and tables; the font size for written text should be 12-point type and for tables and figures should be no smaller than 11 points, Times New Roman. RCP proposals that also include the optional project supplement for the IPM information system are permitted to have an additional seven pages for the supplement to have a total of 25 pages (18 pages main narrative + 7 pages for supplement). The page limits outlined here ensure fair competition. The PN must include all the following:

a. Response to Previous Review (1 page): This requirement only applies to Resubmitted Applications. The response to previous review must not exceed one https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/support https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide

1.5-spaced page. This does not count towards the page limit for the PN. Include the application number of the previous submission in the response.

For proposals submitted to the ARDP program area:

b. Problem, Background, and Justification:

i. Project type. Include in the initial sentence the project type (Applied Research, or Integrated (Research and Extension)).

ii. Problem. Describe, in simple terms, how the pest problem being addressed is important (economic losses caused).

iii. Review and reference of relevant completed or ongoing work (local/ regional/ national).

iv. Justification. Identify who will benefit from your project in multistate/U.S.

territory, regional, and/or national terms.

c. Objectives and Anticipated Impacts: Provide clear, concise, and logical objectives of the proposed effort. State clearly the likely impact of the proposed effort and how farmers, ranchers or foresters will benefit from the proposed work Integrated proposals should identify each objective as either research- or Extension-related.

d. Approach and Procedures: Fully describe the procedures for each objective and how the project team will achieve the stated objectives.

e. Multi-State/U.S. Territory and/or Regional/National Involvement and Partnerships: (see Part I § B of this NOFO).

f. Implementation Plan and Timeline: (see Part I § B of this NOFO).

For proposals Submitted to the RCP program area:

a. Provide a full description of the mission and goals of the proposed regional IPM center. Include the justification for the center and the likely impacts of the center and benefits to farmers, ranchers or foresters.

b. Include a description of the management process and structure the regional IPM center proposes to use with regards to establishing advisory/steering committees, involving stakeholders, identifying program needs and priorities, and developing a strategic plan.

c. Describe methods for establishing and maintaining interactive broad information networks. Include details on how the proposed regional IPM center will fully engage with the groups listed below:

i. Respective multistate IPM groups labeled NCERA-222, NEERA-1604, SERA- 03, and WERA-1017 (See the National Information Management and Support System (NIMSS).

ii. Applicable regional pest management activities.

iii. The respective Regional Association of State Agricultural Experiment Station

Directors and Extension Directors.

iv. The Project Directors (PDs) within their respective region who receive grants from NIFA for the CPPM program areas of ARDP and EIP.

d. Describe the center’s proposed signature food security programs and their potential impact(s).

e. Describe the center’s proposed plan for evaluation of outputs and outcomes of applicable IPM research and Extension activities.

https://www.nimss.org/projects/view/mrp/outline/18823 https://www.nimss.org/projects/view/mrp/outline/18301 https://southernipm.org/partners/sera3/ https://southernipm.org/partners/sera3/ https://www.nimss.org/projects/view/mrp/outline/18284 https://www.nimss.org/

f. Include a description of the process that will be used to ensure effective management of IPM center resources, including a fair grant review process.

g. Describe the plan, including milestones, to assess progress and accomplishments throughout the project.

Proposals Submitted Optional RCP Project Supplement for the IPM Information System:

After the necessary information is provided for the regional IPM center narrative, include the following additional information within the same project narrative:

a. Introduction: Include information on the following in the order identified:

i. Summarize the work to be performed in non-technical terms.

ii. Concisely state the goal(s) of the proposed IPM Information System.

iii. Describe how the IPM Information System will build upon or expand related work or programs.

iv. Describe how the work on the IPM Information System relates to the experience of key project personnel.

v. Describe the involvement of stakeholders in developing project objectives and implementing results.

vi. Define the target audience and end users of the IPM Information System.

b. Objectives:

i. Provide a brief review of the goal(s) stated in the Introduction.

ii. Present a clear, concise set of project objectives.

c. Methods: Describe the procedures by objective for the proposed effort, including:

i. Techniques and methods to be employed, including their feasibility and rationale for their use in the IPM Information System.

ii. Timeline for proposed project objectives with milestones and verifiable indicators for demonstrating progress.

d. Networking plan:

i. Provide a credible, detailed plan for successful national and regional networking with IPM programs.

ii. Include how the implementation of the networking plan for the IPM information system facilitates and supports regional and national IPM outcomes consistent with the CPPM program.

3. Field 12. Add Other Attachments. See Part V of the Application Guide.

a. Centers of Excellence Justification (optional): Applicants requesting consideration of COE status must include their justification within one page.

b. Logic Model. A Logic Model is required of all applications and is limited to 3 pages.

The project-specific logic model must provide details for the: inputs, outputs (activities and participants), and outcomes, situation, assumptions, and external factors of the proposed project. Refer to the logic model chart in your project description, evaluation plans, and elsewhere, as applicable. Additional information is available at these web sites: Integrated Programs' Logic Model Planning Process, Logic Model Planning Process, and Program Development and Evaluation.

c. Data Management Plan (DMP): A DMP is required for this program, not to exceed two pages. Applicants should clearly articulate how the project director (PD) and co-https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/integrated-programs-logic-model-planning-process https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/logic-model-planning-process https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/programdevelopment/

PDs plan to manage and disseminate the data generated by the project (see NIFA’s Data Management Plan). The DMP will be considered during the merit review process. The Data Management Plan should detail how project data will be curated and made available once the project is completed (included as Other Attachment).

d. Mentoring Plan (MP): Two-page limit. A MP is required for all grant types that involve student or participant training or mentoring. MPs should be included as a separate attachment and uploaded to Field 12 of the grant application. All student/trainee types can be included in the same MP. The guidelines below apply to all grant types. The MP should describe each of the following:

a. Past or proposed training of individuals who will serve as mentors including equipping, mentoring, or monitoring activities they have received or will receive to help them effectively mentor students and trainees during the project;

b. Groups of students or individual trainees to be mentored on the project, including students grades 9-12, undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, professionals and any other individuals to be trained or mentored on the project;

c. Detailed mentoring activities to be delivered throughout the project to each distinct category or group of students and/or trainee participants, including those activities provided through research, education, Extension or outreach efforts;

d. Expected outcomes derived from the mentoring activities and prospective impact(s) on the food and agricultural sciences.

R&R Senior/Key Person Profile (Expanded). See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for profile requirements, details about the biographical sketch, and suggested support templates.

R&R Personal Data. This information is voluntary and is not a precondition of award (see Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide).

R&R Budget. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide.

1. Match - If an ARDP or RCP applicant concludes that the matching requirements described under Part III, B of this NOFO are not applicable to them; the applicant must include an explanation of their conclusion in the budget justification. NIFA will consider this justification when determining final matching requirements or if required matching can be waived. NIFA retains the right to make final determinations regarding matching requirements.

Grants that require matching funds as specified under Part III, B of this NOFO must list in their budget justification the matching sources, the identification of the entity(ies) providing the match, and the total pledged amount. A written verification of commitments of matching support (a pledge agreement) is not required. However, applicants are subject to the documentation, valuing and reporting requirements, as specified r in 2 CFR Part 200, “Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (the Uniform Guidance),” and 7 CFR 3430, https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=39448527cdd5ebd0a063b91b8b44f0f5&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=39448527cdd5ebd0a063b91b8b44f0f5&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=1a74011311d649ff6313ca273791b131&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5

“Competitive and Noncompetitive Non-Formula Federal Assistance Programs – General Award Administrative Provisions.”

2. Indirect Costs (IDC) – See Part IV, C of this NOFO for funding restrictions regarding IDC, and Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for additional information.https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide

Supplemental Information Form. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide.

1. Field 2. Program to which the applicant is applying. Enter the program name “Applied

Research and Development Program” or “Regional Coordination Program” and the program code “ARDP” or “RCP.” Accurate entry is critical.

2. Field 8. Conflict of Interest List. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide.

C. Funding Restrictions Indirect Cost (IDC) is not to exceed 30 percent of the recipient’s Total Federal Funds Awarded (TFFA). 7 U.S.C. 3310 limits the recovery of IDC for the overall award to 30 percent of the TFFA under a research, education, or Extension grant. The maximum allowable IDC amount recoverable under the award, including the IDC charged by the sub-awardee(s), if any, is the lesser of the following and is determined by calculating the amount of IDC using:

1. The sum of an institution’s negotiated indirect cost rate and the indirect cost rate charged by sub-awardees, if any.

2. 30 percent of TFFA.

If the result of number one is the lesser of the two amounts, the grant recipient is allowed to charge the negotiated IDC rate on the prime award and the sub-award(s), if any. Any sub-awards would be subject to the sub-awardee’s negotiated IDC rate. The sub-awardee may charge its negotiated IDC rate on its portion of the award, provided the sum of the IDC amount charged under the award by the prime awardee and the sub-awardee(s) does not exceed 30 percent of the

TFFA.

If the result of number two is the lesser of the two amounts, then the maximum IDC allowed for the overall award, including any sub-award(s), is limited to 30 percent of the TFFA. That is, the IDC of the prime awardee plus the sum of the IDC charged by the sub-awardee(s), if any, may not exceed 30 percent of the TFFA.

In the event of an award, the prime awardee is responsible for ensuring the maximum indirect cost allowed for the award is not exceeded when combining IDC for the Federal portion (i.e., prime and sub-awardee(s)) and any applicable cost-sharing. Amounts exceeding the maximum allowable IDC are considered unallowable. See sections 408 and 410 of 2 CFR 200.

If the applicant does not have a negotiated rate and NIFA is the cognizant agency, the applicant may request an IDC rate. Applicants are not required to complete the IDC package during the application process and need only to calculate a rate to serve as a basis for requesting IDC. If awarded, the applicant will be required to submit a complete IDC proposal package to obtain a negotiated rate.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=1a74011311d649ff6313ca273791b131&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=1a74011311d649ff6313ca273791b131&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5 https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3310%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section3310)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=99b0d2f1cf782a71783f992ece47bb5a&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5#se2.1.200_1408 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=99b0d2f1cf782a71783f992ece47bb5a&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5#se2.1.200_1410 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=99b0d2f1cf782a71783f992ece47bb5a&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5

Organizations that do not have a current negotiated (including provisional) rate, may elect the de minimis rate (2 CFR 200.414(f)). The Uniform Guidance offers the option of electing to charge a de minimis rate of 15 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC) which may be used indefinitely. As described above and in 2 CFR 200.403, costs must be charged consistently as either indirect or direct costs but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If elected, this methodology must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which it may do at any time.

See NIFA Indirect Costs for information including additional resources and NIFA Indirect Cost Guidance Chart.

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