Welcome to GrantTalk, the podcast where grants take center stage! Hosted by Libby Hikind, founder and CEO of GrantWatch and author of The Queen of Grants, this episode dives into the world of research funding with Magda Galindo, Director of Grants Management at the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR).
In this episode, Libby and Magda explore what makes a strong grant application, the importance of clear proposals, and how FFAR supports agricultural research through a variety of funding opportunities. Whether you are a researcher seeking funding or just curious about the grant process, this discussion offers valuable insights into securing grants that drive innovation.
Magda Galindo’s Journey to FFAR
With a background in biomedical research and a passion for making an impact, Galindo’s journey into grants management was anything but conventional. She quickly realized that she preferred administering funding over fundraising, leveraging her expertise to ensure that research proposals align with funding goals. Now, at FFAR, she helps guide applicants through the grant process while ensuring that awarded projects truly serve their intended purpose.
The FFAR Grant Application Process
FFAR funds research through four major mechanisms: direct solicitations, competitive requests for applications (RFAs), prizes and competitions, and consortia. Consortia bring together public and private stakeholders to support research in shared areas of interest. Because of these varied funding avenues, the application process depends on the type of grant being pursued.
For many of FFAR’s funding opportunities, particularly competitive RFAs, the application follows a two-stage process. Applicants first submit a Letter of Intent (LOI), typically a one-page summary outlining their research proposal. If the LOI aligns with FFAR’s priorities, applicants are then invited to submit a full proposal, which contains the in-depth details of their research project.
FFAR’s Grants on GrantWatch
Food Supply or Agricultural Sector
Workforce Development Activities
Competitive RFAs and Ongoing Grant Opportunities
GrantWatch lists FFAR’s competitive RFAs, providing researchers with up-to-date information on available funding opportunities. Unlike many grantmakers, FFAR does not always adhere to a strict annual funding cycle. Instead, grants are posted as funding becomes available, making it essential for applicants to stay informed through GrantWatch and FFAR’s newsletter.
FFAR’s Four Research Priorities
FFAR’s grant funding focuses on four key priority areas:
- Cultivating Thriving Production Systems – Supports animal and crop systems, improves productivity, combats pests and diseases, and promotes animal welfare while safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods. Areas of research include crop resilience, integrated animal health, and economically viable agricultural systems.
- Sustaining Vibrant Agroecosystems – Focuses on pathways to adoption and strategies for improving agroecosystem decision-making, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
- Bolstering Healthy Food Systems – Addresses optimizing health and nutrition, food manufacturing and processing, economic viability, the bio-economy, and reducing environmental contaminants and pollutants.
- Strengthening the Scientific Workforce – Supports initiatives to expand and retain talent in agricultural research. FFAR currently manages eight workforce programs designed to attract new scientists and sustain their engagement in the field.
Funding Research That Matters
Magda highlights one of her favorite initiatives. It’s a study led by Dr. Punya Nachappa at Colorado State University. This research focuses on the wheat stem sawfly, a non-stinging wasp that poses a significant threat to wheat crops. This project aims to mitigate the pest’s impact, ensuring stable wheat production.
Another interesting project involves the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, where researchers are combating African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV). This highly contagious and fatal disease affects pigs, threatening the livestock industry. Protecting animal health is essential not only for farmers but also for the entire agricultural ecosystem.
Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships
FFAR was established through the 2014 Farm Bill as a nonprofit organization. One of their core principles is leveraging federal funding with matching contributions from private stakeholders. For every federal dollar spent, they secure an additional $1.40 in funding. This overmatch allows them to support more research projects and provide flexibility in matching requirements for grantees. Applicants should explore potential funding sources within their institutions or networks to meet matching requirements when applicable.
Sharing Research Outcomes
Transparency is key to maximizing the impact of funded research. FFAR’s website features all current and past projects, while their outcomes team compiles annual reports detailing progress and results. These reports help stakeholders, policymakers, and taxpayers understand the value of their investment in agricultural research.
Final Takeaway: Keep Applying!
Through strategic partnerships, rigorous research, and streamlined funding processes, FFAR continues to drive innovation in agriculture. By investing in cutting-edge research, they ensure a sustainable future for farmers, consumers, and the broader agricultural community.
Grant writers play a vital role in securing funding, often working behind the scenes to develop strong proposals. At GrantWatch, successful grant writers receive a special latte mug as a token of recognition—an exclusive symbol of their achievement. Additionally, “The Queen of Grants” book offers valuable insights for those looking to refine their grant-writing skills and improve their chances of securing funding.
Want to explore more funding opportunities? GrantWatch lists grants like FFAR’s and hundreds more, helping educators, nonprofits, and businesses access the resources they need.
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