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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in collaboration with the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR), has announced the selection of three innovative projects to receive funding through the “Nourishing Next Generation Agrifood Breakthroughs” Innovation Challenge. Columbia University and the University of British Columbia will each receive $500,000, while From the Land, LLC will receive $150,000 to support their groundbreaking project ideas in agriculture.
These projects aim to transform agriculture by focusing on nutrition security, equity and justice, and climate-Smart Agriculture. Columbia University’s project, in partnership with the University of Puerto Rico, will support underserved producers in Puerto Rico in cultivating climate-resilient rice. The University of British Columbia’s project, in collaboration with USDA’s Agricultural Research Service, will develop a nutrient-dense coating to increase access to fresh produce. From the Land, LLC’s project will enrich mealworms to improve the quality of essential fats in poultry products.
These projects were selected from 91 applications received from academia, government, industry and commodity groups from various countries. The funding will support transdisciplinary teams led by early-career scientists to drive new discoveries and address societal challenges.
The Innovation Challenge aims to spark high-risk, high-reward research and promote transformative approaches in food and agriculture science. USDA Chief Scientist Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young emphasized the importance of supporting innovative ideas that pave the way for future advancements in agriculture.
The collaborative investment will advance scientific research that addresses nutrition security, Climate Change impacts, and equity for underserved communities. These projects align with USDA’s Science & Research Strategy and FFAR’s Priority Areas, focusing on advancing disruptive technologies and translating research into action.
The announcement was made during the virtual event “USDA Science Showcase & Innovation Challenge Reveal,” highlighting the critical role of public agricultural research and development in driving innovative solutions. FFAR is seeking additional funding partners to support projects aligned with the Innovation Challenge, inviting interested parties to review project presentations on their website.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is prioritizing a more resilient food system, promoting fair markets for producers, and investing in climate-smart practices. The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) plays a crucial role in funding research to address food and agriculture challenges, collaborating with public and private partners to deliver impactful science.
For more information, visit USDA’s website and connect with FFAR on social media. #USDA #FFAR #FoodSecurity
USDA is committed to equal opportunities for all Americans as a provider, employer, and lender.
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Sophie Müller completed her studies at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, earning a degree in Environmental Sciences with a concentration in agroecology. Her research explored the interactions between crops and their environment, particularly in relation to organic farming systems. Sophie is now a research scientist, focusing on agroecological practices that promote biodiversity and reduce environmental impact in agriculture.
