Grain Research & Promotion Grant Program

The Arizona Grain Research and Promotion Council (AGRPC), under the auspices of the Arizona Department of Agriculture, is offering funding through its 2025 Research Grant Program. This program is designed to support Arizona grain producers by funding research initiatives that aim to resolve production-related challenges. The council’s mission focuses on advancing the grain industry in Arizona, and all findings from funded research will be disseminated to benefit local grain producers. The program operates outside the usual state grant regulations, following the competitive grant solicitation rules established in Arizona Administrative Code R3-9-205. The primary source of grant funding is derived from assessments levied on barley and wheat seed produced in Arizona for food, feed, seed, or industrial use. Individual awards can reach up to $40,000, with the possibility of multi-year projects and multiple awards, contingent on available funds. Notably, indirect or overhead expenses are not eligible for funding. The AGRPC expects to distribute grant funds starting in September 2025. Projects must aim to improve Arizona’s grain production sustainability, particularly small grain production, and can encompass water use reduction, new grain variety development, improved production and handling methods, or innovations in harvesting equipment. Collaborative proposals are encouraged, and projects that benefit small grain production even when involving other crops are eligible. Applications must be submitted online via a designated portal by 5:00 p.m. (MST) on Friday, August 15, 2025. A public opening of applications will occur on August 18, 2025, followed by an AGRPC meeting on or around August 26, where voluntary but strongly encouraged oral presentations may be scheduled. Presenters will receive notification of their presentation slot at least 24 hours in advance. All applicants must comply with state and federal laws, including verification of lawful presence and e-verify enrollment for employers. The application process includes completing an online form with detailed project information, submitting a signed cover sheet, and uploading an itemized budget. Evaluation criteria include prior project performance, relevance and impact of the proposed work, alignment with recent industry surveys, appropriate budgeting, project timeframe, and the qualifications of the project team. Each project must also outline its sustainability plan, collaborative framework, evaluation method, and measurable objectives. Awardees are required to submit at least one progress report during the grant period and a final report with an abstract and summary within 90 days of the project’s end date. Failure to comply with reporting may result in forfeiture of the final payment. The AGRPC may also require interim updates. All grant-supported research must be made publicly accessible. Contact for inquiries is Ashley Estes, AGRPC Administrator, available via email at aestes@azda.gov or phone at 602-316-6775.