Crop-Animal Systems Research Program

The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR), a nonprofit organization founded to support scientific research in agriculture, is launching the Crop-Animal Systems Research Request for Applications (RFA). This initiative reflects FFAR's commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research that bridges crop and animal systems. FFAR’s 2023 Research Strategy outlines its focus on four interrelated priorities: thriving production systems, vibrant agroecosystems, healthy food systems, and a robust scientific workforce. This RFA supports FFAR’s Thriving Production Systems priority, emphasizing projects that foster cross-disciplinary collaboration to generate knowledge benefiting both crop and animal systems. The RFA seeks innovative research projects that integrate crop and animal systems to address key themes, including crop resilience, integrated animal health and productivity, economic viability of farming systems, and agricultural stewardship. Projects may explore areas such as resource-efficient animal feed, improved animal nutrition, nutrient cycling, circular agriculture, and strategies for optimizing crop and livestock rotations. Applications must clearly demonstrate relevance to U.S. agriculture, integrate both crop and animal expertise, and avoid duplicating efforts in FFAR’s existing programs, such as the Greener Cattle Initiative and ICASA. Eligible applicants include individuals from domestic and international academic institutions, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, and U.S. government-affiliated research agencies. Projects must provide a clear benefit and deployment path within the U.S. food and agriculture system. All proposed research must comply with standard regulatory requirements, including IACUC and IRB approvals where applicable. Applicants must submit a pre-application by June 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. EDT, through FFAR's online grant management system. Only those who receive an invitation will be allowed to submit a full application by September 10, 2025. An informational webinar will be held on May 20, 2025, and a recording will be available afterward. Pre- and full applications must include detailed project descriptions, personnel bios, timelines, budgets, and evidence of matching funds. FFAR encourages partnerships with external organizations, including commodity groups like the United Soybean Board and Dairy Management Inc., which may offer matching support. FFAR will award up to $4 million through this RFA, with individual awards ranging from $300,000 to $1,000,000 in FFAR funding. All grants require matching funds equal to or greater than the requested FFAR amount. At least 50% of the match must be in cash, and total project durations must fall between 24 and 60 months. FFAR’s evaluation process includes a three-stage review based on innovation, technical merit, potential outcomes, and partnerships. For further information, applicants can contact the Grants Team at grants@foundationfar.org or reach out directly to Ryan Comella (rcomella@foundationfar.org) and Nikki Dutta (ndutta@foundationfar.org).