The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Pierce’s Disease and Glassy-winged Sharpshooter Board (PD/GWSS) is seeking proposals for research and outreach projects that address critical pests and diseases impacting the winegrape industry. These include Pierce’s disease and its vectors, the glassy-winged sharpshooter, and other significant threats such as the spotted lanternfly, grapevine fanleaf disease, red blotch disease, and mealybug pests. Proposals are due by January 31, 2025, with projects set to begin on July 1, 2025. The funding period can extend for one to three years, contingent on satisfactory progress and the continuing relevance of the project objectives.
The grant program focuses on supporting innovative, multi-disciplinary projects that are likely to yield practical solutions for California winegrape growers. Proposals are encouraged to target real-world applications and to include activities such as field testing and outreach efforts that directly benefit growers. Applicants must submit periodic progress reports, attend the Pierce’s Disease Research Symposium or similar events, and ensure their projects align with industry needs.
Eligible applicants include individuals or groups with expertise in winegrape pest and disease research or outreach who are affiliated with nonprofit institutions. Award amounts have historically ranged from $4,300 to $383,000 per year, with funding derived from assessments paid by the California winegrape industry. The program prioritizes proposals that demonstrate a clear path to practical application and involve strong collaboration among researchers, growers, and other stakeholders.
Proposals will be evaluated on multiple criteria, including the clarity and relevance of objectives, the potential for practical industry deliverables, the feasibility of the work plan, team expertise, resource availability, and budget appropriateness. Points will also be awarded based on the project’s timeline and ability to address critical industry challenges without duplicating existing efforts. A robust budget that excludes indirect costs is required, and detailed justifications must accompany funding requests.
Submissions must include key components such as a project title, history (if applicable), layperson summary, detailed objectives, methodology, expected deliverables, timetable, and a breakdown of resources. Applicants should also disclose any intellectual property considerations and align with California’s requirements for public access to state-funded research.
Proposals must be submitted through the CDFA grants portal by January 31, 2025, and late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Questions about the grant process can be directed to the CDFA Pierce’s Disease Control Program at pdresearch@cdfa.ca.gov or 916-900-5024. This funding opportunity allows researchers and outreach professionals to develop innovative solutions that protect and enhance California’s winegrape industry.
