Feed the Future Innovation Labs

The Department of State’s Office of Global Food Security (OGFS) has announced the Feed the Future Innovation Labs funding opportunity under opportunity number DFOP0017826. This program aligns with the broader objectives of the U.S. Government’s Feed the Future initiative, a major global hunger and food security effort that seeks to reduce poverty and malnutrition through agricultural innovation, collaboration, and research. Through this funding, OGFS aims to engage U.S. academic institutions in conducting targeted research that addresses global food security challenges, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This opportunity will support the establishment of up to seven Innovation Labs that will work to advance agricultural science, food systems, and nutrition-focused interventions. The Labs will focus on two key objectives: (1) advancing agricultural science and research to boost productivity, manage threats to production systems, and ensure the availability of safe, nutritious food; and (2) increasing demand for such foods through better market systems, policy environments, and consumption patterns. Innovation Labs are expected to function as research and development hubs that drive scientific breakthroughs, foster partnerships, and influence food security policies across targeted geographies. Funded Innovation Labs will operate under cooperative agreements, with significant involvement from OGFS throughout the life of the award. Award sizes range from $20 million to $40 million, with a total anticipated funding pool of $64 million. No cost-sharing or matching requirement is imposed on applicants. Projects may focus on a broad range of activities across research, capacity building, private-sector engagement, and policy advising, and they must show how their work contributes to inclusive and sustainable food systems. Only U.S. colleges and universities are eligible to apply under this announcement, as defined in Section 296(d) of Title XII of the Foreign Assistance Act, as amended. These institutions are expected to demonstrate significant experience in agricultural research, development partnerships, and global engagement. While international collaboration is encouraged, the primary awardee must be a U.S.-based institution. Institutions may submit a maximum of three applications for different thematic focus areas, and sub-awards are permitted to domestic and international organizations. The application process begins with the submission of a Statement of Interest (SOI), which outlines the applicant’s vision, core competencies, and strategic approach. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application following a competitive review process. Submissions are evaluated based on technical merit, alignment with Feed the Future goals, potential for impact, and implementation feasibility. Proposals must demonstrate how their proposed lab will serve as a long-term center of excellence and contribute to lasting food systems transformation. The current closing date for Statements of Interest is April 9, 2026. All SOIs must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by the stated deadline. Interested parties should closely review the Statement of Interest Amendment 1 document for specific guidance on submission requirements, selection criteria, and eligibility. For questions or access issues, applicants can contact the program via email at [email protected].