Building Agri-Tech Capacity in Nebraska Farmers
GrantID: 11431
Grant Funding Amount Low: $1,400,000
Deadline: November 16, 2026
Grant Amount High: $4,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Agri-Tech Innovations for Nebraska Farmers
Nebraska’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of its economy, employing approximately 1 in 4 residents and accounting for nearly 25% of the state's total revenues. However, Nebraska farmers face several resource management challenges in their operations, particularly in terms of water usage and soil health. The state has seen a substantial decline in aquifer levels, with some areas reporting drops of over 30% in the last two decades due to unsustainable irrigation practices. This puts pressure on farmers to adopt advanced technologies that can optimize resource use while ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
Local farmers, especially those operating on smaller plots, are particularly affected by these resource management challenges. A significant portion of Nebraska's farmers struggles to adopt new technology due to financial constraints or lack of access to training and support. According to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, only 40% of farmers currently utilize precision agriculture tools, which could drastically improve efficiency and resource use.
To mitigate these gaps, the Nebraska grant initiative supports agri-tech innovations specifically aimed at farmers. Eligible applicants include individual farmers, cooperatives, and agricultural organizations seeking to adopt precision agriculture tools or other technologies designed to enhance operational efficiency. The grant provides funding for both the acquisition of technology and any necessary training required for implementation.
The application process is straightforward, requiring applicants to demonstrate how the proposed technology will benefit their operations and contribute to sustainable practices in agriculture. However, many farmers may find the application process daunting, given that they may lack expertise in developing proposals. To address this, partnerships with extension services and agricultural advisors are encouraged to assist applicants in navigating the funding process effectively.
By fostering agri-tech innovations, Nebraska can address pressing sustainability issues within its agricultural sector while empowering local farmers to take control of their resource management practices. This initiative is vital for Nebraska’s agricultural resilience and is integral to maintaining the state’s position as a leader in the agricultural industry.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
