Arizona Grain Research and Promotion Council - FY26

The Arizona Grain Research and Promotion Council (AGRPC) has opened its FY26 competitive grant program to support Arizona grain producers in addressing key production challenges. Funded primarily through assessments on barley and wheat seeds grown for food, feed, seed, or industrial purposes in Arizona, this initiative is governed by Arizona Administrative Code R3-9-205 and not by general state grant statutes. The purpose of this program is to fund innovative research, equipment design, and production enhancement projects that support the sustainability and economic resilience of the Arizona grain industry. The grant funds are intended to finance research that reduces fresh water consumption, supports the development of new grain varieties, improves production and handling methods, or designs new or improved harvesting and handling equipment. While other crops may be included in the research, projects must demonstrate clear benefits to small grain production. Collaboration among applicants is encouraged, and the Council welcomes joint efforts among researchers, institutions, and industry groups. Eligible applicants include a wide range of entities such as local governments, academic institutions, consortia, Native American tribes, nonprofits, private sector organizations, schools and school districts, and state government agencies. Individuals may also apply, provided they submit proof of lawful presence in the United States, as required by A.R.S. § 1-502 and 8 U.S.C. § 1621. Employers must also demonstrate compliance with the federal e-Verify program. The application process requires submission through the AGRPC’s online portal by August 15, 2025, no later than 5:00 PM MST. Applications will be publicly opened on August 18, 2025, and awards are expected to be announced and granted by September 2025. Applicants must complete and upload a signed application cover sheet, itemized budget, and responses to all nine application questions which cover project scope, timeline, collaboration, sustainability, evaluation, and goals. The maximum allowable budget is $40,000 per project, and indirect/overhead expenses are not permitted. Matching funds are not required. Applications will be evaluated based on seven criteria: prior successful project completion, relevance to current and future grain industry issues, alignment with recent industry surveys, budget appropriateness, feasibility of timeline, and the experience and qualifications of the applicant. Oral presentations during the August 26, 2025, AGRPC meeting are optional but highly encouraged, as they allow applicants to address Council questions directly. Applicants must submit at least one progress report and a final report that includes an abstract and layman’s summary. The final report is due within 90 days of project completion. Up to 50% of the grant may be provided as an initial payment; the remainder will be disbursed after the final report and invoice are submitted. All research findings funded through this program will be made publicly available to benefit Arizona grain producers.

Ensure the budget excludes overhead Prepare reports in advance for faster submission Include detailed project timelines and performance measures Engage with collaborative partners and prepare for optional presentation on August 26