Smith Lever Speical Needs Competitive Grant Program | Apply Online

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Smith Lever Special Needs Competitive Grant Program (USDA NIFA SLBCD 005842)?

The Smith Lever Special Needs Competitive Grant Program (USDA NIFA SLBCD 005842) is a discretionary grant opportunity offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA). It is listed under CFDA 10.500 and supports Special Needs projects led through the Cooperative Extension System, focused on emergency preparedness, disaster response, and recovery.

Who is the funding agency for this opportunity?

The funding agency is the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), specifically USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA).

What is the main purpose of this grant program?

The core purpose is to fund Special Needs projects that implement applied, science-driven programs designed to meet public needs related to emergency preparedness, disaster response, and recovery. The program is intended to strengthen Extension's ability to deliver timely, research-based information and education before, during, and after local or regional emergency situations.

What kinds of problems or community needs is this funding meant to address?

This opportunity targets public needs connected to emergencies and disasters, including helping communities prepare for disasters, respond effectively during emergencies, and cope with losses and critical incidents afterward. The overall aim is to improve readiness and resilience, reduce harm and losses, and support faster recovery at local and regional levels.

What types of projects are a good fit for this opportunity?

Based on the description provided, projects are a good fit if they are Extension-led (or strengthen Extension capacity) and are applied and science-driven, with a clear focus on delivering practical education and communication that people can use in real time during stressful conditions. The opportunity emphasizes outreach that translates science into practical guidance for communities facing emergencies.

What kinds of activities does the program emphasize for Cooperative Extension during disasters?

The description highlights several common Extension functions during disasters, including: communicating practical, science-based risk information; creating educational experiences and programs directly relevant to the on-the-ground situation; working with individuals and communities to establish or expand communication channels so information can reach people quickly and reliably; and helping mitigate losses while supporting recovery efforts.

Does the program focus on preparedness only, or also response and recovery?

It covers all three phases: preparedness (before a disaster), response (during an emergency), and recovery (after an incident). The framing emphasizes Extension's role across the full timeline of emergencies and critical incidents.

What is meant by "applied, science-driven programs" in this grant context?

In this context, "applied, science-driven" refers to programming grounded in research and designed to be used in practice, especially under crisis conditions. The intent is for Extension outreach to translate science into practical, usable guidance and education that can help people make decisions and take actions during emergencies.

What is the funding instrument type for this opportunity?

The funding instrument type is a Grant.

What funding activity category is listed for this opportunity?

The funding activity category is Agriculture.

Is this opportunity competitive?

Yes. The program is identified as the Smith Lever Special Needs Competitive Grant Program, indicating it is a competitive grant opportunity.

What is the application posting date and creation date?

The posting date and creation date are both May 13, 2016.

What is the application due date (closing date)?

The application closing date is June 13, 2016. The information provided indicates the original and current closing dates are the same.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is listed as "Others." The excerpt references further clarification in an additional eligibility information field, but that field is not included in the text provided. Applicants would need to consult the full notice to confirm exact eligibility requirements and conditions.

Are the award ceiling, award size, or expected number of awards provided?

No. Several financial details, including the award ceiling and expected number of awards, are not provided in the source excerpt. Those details would need to be confirmed in the complete funding announcement.

What is the Cooperative Extension System's role in this program?

The program is framed around the long-standing role of the Cooperative Extension System as a trusted, community-based resource that supports families, communities, and businesses before, during, and after disasters. The grant opportunity is intended to strengthen Extension capacity to deliver timely, research-based information and education in emergency situations.

What outcomes does the program ultimately aim to achieve?

The stated intent is to invest in applied programming that improves readiness and resilience, reduces disaster-related harm and losses, and speeds recovery across affected communities through practical delivery of research-based guidance, community-facing education, and reliable communication channels.

Is the opportunity focused on local or regional emergencies?

Yes. The description specifically mentions local or regional emergency situations and emphasizes community-based outreach and capacity that can function effectively during crisis conditions.

Where can applicants find missing details not included in this excerpt?

The excerpt indicates that some key items (such as detailed eligibility clarification and financial details like award ceiling and number of awards) are not included here. Those items would need to be verified in the complete funding announcement/notice for the opportunity.