The AgriProspects Workforce Development Network, a collaborative effort of the Extension Foundation (EXF), the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP) Economic & Workforce Development and Urban Ag & Food Systems Program Action Teams, and USDA-NIFA, aims to bolster the Extension system’s capacity to meet the evolving workforce demands within the food and agriculture sector.

To further its mission, AgriProspects is seeking proposals for Round 1 of its Mini-grant Program. Round 1 Mini-grants are aimed at developing adult, ag sector focused workforce development capacity within the Cooperative Extension System. From cross-region and cross-institution collaboration to expanding the good work already underway, almost anything is on the table!

All Land-Grant Colleges & Universities, regardless of membership status with the Extension Foundation, are invited to apply for mini-grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 for projects spanning up to two years. A Land-Grant College or University must be the lead applicant. Successful applicants will receive support from AgriProspects Coordinators and access to translation services for project materials as appropriate.

The initiative is divided into three funding rounds spanning two years each, starting from September 2024. Future rounds will adapt to address emerging needs in the agricultural workforce, so while applicants may plan multi-phase projects, funding in earlier rounds does not guarantee funding in subsequent ones.

Help shape the future of Extension’s adult workforce development efforts! Learn more at https://agriprospects.extension.org/mini-grant-rfp/.

AgriProspects is supported through a cooperative agreement between the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the Extension Foundation under the AFRI Education and Workforce Development Competitive Grant 2023-67037-40533.