Opportunity Overview
The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) has opened the FY2026 1890 Institution Teaching, Research, and Extension Capacity Building Grants Program under Funding Opportunity Number USDA-NIFA-CBGP-011698 and Assistance Listing 10.216.
The program strengthens the teaching, research, and Extension capacity of 1890 Land-grant Universities in the food and agricultural sciences. NIFA identifies three core goals: advancing the professional workforce, strengthening institutional and public/private linkages, and enhancing education, research, and Extension programs at the 1890 institutions.
Funding and Deadline
The current federal posting lists $56 million in estimated total program funding, approximately 125 awards, and an award range of $50,000 to $750,000. Cost sharing is not required. Applications close November 4, 2026.
Who Can Apply
Applications may be submitted only by eligible 1890 Land-grant Universities. Applicants must meet the eligibility and submission requirements in the controlling FY2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity.
What the Funding Supports
Projects may build institutional capacity through teaching, research, Extension, or integrated activities in food and agricultural sciences. NIFA describes supported goals including workforce development, stronger inter-institutional and industry linkages, and improved education, research, and Extension capacity.
Atlas Analysis
Atlas Opportunity Score: 81/100. This is a substantial national higher-education capacity program with a clear federal source, meaningful award range, and a November application window. Eligibility is narrow because only 1890 Land-grant Universities may apply.
N9+ Direct Vendor Fit: 0/100. QC Healthcare Fit: 0/100. The controlling program is focused on institutional food-and-agricultural teaching, research, and Extension capacity rather than clinical-care delivery, remote physical exams, telehealth equipment, or physician coverage. Atlas should not position N9+ or QC Healthcare under this opportunity absent a later controlling amendment that materially changes allowable scope.
Next Action
Eligible 1890 Land-grant Universities should review the FY2026 NOFO, select the appropriate teaching, research, Extension, or integrated priority, confirm all institutional and project requirements, and submit the complete federal application by November 4, 2026.