Four projects receive funding to expand profitable crop options across the United States
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is supporting efforts to expand alternative crop production across the country through a new round of research funding.
USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) has awarded $1.8 million through its Supplemental and Alternative Crops competitive grant program. The investment will support projects focused on increasing the production and adoption of crops used for food, livestock feed, oils, and industrial products.
As farmers continue to face changing market demands, weather challenges, and production costs, alternative crops offer opportunities to diversify operations and improve profitability. These crops can serve multiple purposes, providing ingredients for food products, animal feed, renewable materials, industrial goods, and specialized markets.
The grant program is designed to help researchers identify crops that can succeed in various growing regions throughout the United States. Because growing conditions differ from one region to another, researchers are working to develop production systems and management practices tailored to local environments.
Another important goal of the program is to speed up the delivery of useful information and innovative technologies to farmers. By sharing research findings quickly, producers can make informed decisions about introducing new crops into their operations.
The initiative supports both research and Extension activities, helping connect university scientists, industry partners, and agricultural professionals with farmers seeking practical solutions. Projects may be conducted within conventional farming systems, organic production systems, or a combination of both.
The funding awarded for fiscal year 2026 will support four projects led by organizations located in different parts of the country. Award recipients include Kansas State University, New West Genetics Inc., Pennsylvania State University, and Texas A&M University.
Each project will explore ways to expand the use and adaptation of alternative crops that can contribute to a stronger and more diverse agricultural sector. Researchers will examine production practices, crop performance, market opportunities, and methods that can help farmers successfully integrate these crops into existing operations.
Alternative crops have become increasingly important as producers look for new revenue sources and ways to reduce risk. Growing a wider variety of crops can help improve farm resilience, support environmental goals, and create access to emerging markets.
The USDA believes these investments can strengthen domestic agriculture while increasing the availability of food, feed, and renewable materials. Expanding crop choices can also contribute to more sustainable production systems and greater economic opportunities for rural communities.
Research generated through these projects may help identify promising crops that perform well under regional growing conditions, while also providing valuable management recommendations for producers. Extension activities will further help ensure that farmers receive practical information and support.
By investing in crop diversification and innovation, the USDA aims to help American agriculture remain competitive and responsive to changing consumer and industry demands. The latest round of funding highlights the agency’s continued commitment to supporting agricultural research that benefits producers, businesses, and consumers nationwide.
The four funded projects are expected to contribute new knowledge, technologies, and production strategies that can support the long-term growth of alternative crop industries in the United States. As results become available, farmers will gain access to valuable tools and information that may help improve profitability and create new business opportunities.
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