Earlier this month, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced it will invest $15 million this year for the Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) Classic program. Through CIG, grantees work to address our nation’s water quality, water quantity, air quality, soil health and wildlife habitat challenges, all while supporting agricultural production. This year’s funding priorities are climate-smart agriculture, addressing invasive species and conservation in urban agricultural systems.
For the fiscal 2022 award process, at least 10% of the total funds available are set aside for proposals that entirely benefit historically underserved producers. This set-aside will ensure that equity is incorporated in the planning and delivery of CIG projects to align with NRCS’s Justice 40 goals. Historically underserved applicants can also waive the non-Federal match requirements.
Applications will be accepted through October 11, 2022. Private entities whose primary business is related to agriculture, nongovernmental organizations with experience working with agricultural producers and non-federal government agencies are eligible to apply.
For more information and to apply, visit grants.gov. For more information about the CIG program, visit the NRCS website.