Deadline: 06-Jul-2026
The Crop Protection and Pest Management (CPPM) Grant Program is inviting applications to support integrated research, Extension, and education projects that address major pest management challenges in U.S. agriculture through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches. The program supports innovative strategies that improve agricultural productivity, profitability, sustainability, and food production.
The initiative focuses on managing insects, weeds, pathogens, nematodes, invasive species, and other agricultural pests at state, regional, and national levels using science-based and technology-driven pest management solutions.
Program Objectives
The program aims to:
- Support comprehensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies
- Improve agricultural productivity and profitability
- Address emerging and existing pest management challenges
- Promote sustainable and environmentally responsible pest control methods
- Encourage innovation and the use of emerging technologies
- Strengthen agricultural research, education, and Extension activities
Priority Areas
Priority is given to projects focused on:
- Invasive species management
- Insect and weed control
- Plant disease and pathogen management
- Nematode management
- Emerging pest threats
- Technology-based pest monitoring and response systems
- Innovative IPM research and implementation
- State, regional, and national pest management coordination
Projects that use new technologies to improve pest management efficiency and sustainability are strongly encouraged.
Funding Details
- Total estimated program funding: $8,250,000
- Award ceiling: $1,150,000
- Award floor: $300,000
FY 2026 Funding Allocation
- Applied Research and Development Program (ARDP): Approximately $4,100,000
- Regional Coordination Program (RCP): Approximately $4,150,000
Funding availability depends on USDA and NIFA grant cycle resources. USDA is not obligated to fund any specific number of projects.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include:
- Colleges and universities defined under the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977
- Hispanic-serving agricultural colleges and universities
- 1994 Institutions
Award recipients may subcontract with organizations that are not directly eligible if those partnerships are necessary for project implementation and approved by NIFA.
Eligible Activities
Supported activities may include:
- Agricultural pest research projects
- Extension and outreach programs
- Farmer and producer education initiatives
- IPM strategy development
- Pest surveillance and monitoring systems
- Regional pest management coordination
- Technology-driven pest control solutions
- Data collection and analysis projects
How to Apply
- Develop a project focused on Integrated Pest Management challenges
- Identify target pests, agricultural impact, and proposed solutions
- Prepare a detailed research, education, or Extension plan
- Create a realistic budget within funding limits
- Demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and measurable outcomes
- Include collaboration or subcontracting details if applicable
- Submit the application according to USDA NIFA requirements before the deadline
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Scientific and technical merit
- Relevance to IPM priorities
- Innovation and technology use
- Agricultural impact and sustainability
- Organizational capacity and expertise
- Budget justification and financial feasibility
- Potential benefits for producers and agricultural systems
Why This Program Matters
- Supports sustainable agriculture in the United States
- Helps producers manage pests more effectively
- Reduces economic losses caused by invasive species and crop damage
- Encourages environmentally responsible pest management practices
- Strengthens agricultural research and Extension networks
- Promotes innovation through advanced technologies and data-driven approaches
Tips for Strong Applications
- Clearly define the pest management problem and proposed solution
- Demonstrate measurable agricultural and economic impact
- Include strong research and Extension components
- Highlight innovative technologies or methods
- Show collaboration among institutions and stakeholders
- Provide realistic timelines and budgets
FAQ
What is the CPPM Grant Program?
The Crop Protection and Pest Management Grant Program supports research, Extension, and education projects focused on Integrated Pest Management in U.S. agriculture.
What types of pests are covered?
The program supports projects addressing insects, weeds, pathogens, nematodes, invasive species, and other agricultural pests.
How much funding is available?
The total estimated funding is $8,250,000, with awards ranging from $300,000 to $1,150,000.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include colleges, universities, Hispanic-serving agricultural institutions, and 1994 Institutions.
Are collaborative projects allowed?
Yes, subcontracting and partnerships are allowed with NIFA approval when necessary for project implementation.
Conclusion
The Crop Protection and Pest Management Grant Program supports innovative Integrated Pest Management solutions that improve agricultural sustainability, food production, and producer profitability across the United States. By funding research, Extension, and education initiatives, the program helps address critical pest management challenges through science-based and technology-driven approaches.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.