AgrAbility is a consumer-driven USDA-funded program that provides direct education and assistance to farmers and family members with disabilities. Through the combined dedication and expertise of the Cooperative Extension System and nonprofit organizations that provide direct services to individuals with disabilities, AgrAbility helps producers overcome barriers to increase their success in agricultural production.
AgrAbility was implemented in the 1990 Farm Bill and received its first Federal funding in 1991. Competitive awards are made to Cooperative Extension and nonprofit disability organization teams.
State and Regional AgrAbility Projects (SRAPs):
- provide direct education and assistance to farmers with disabilities
- create development opportunities for Extension, rehabilitation, vocational, and healthcare providers
- mobilize rural volunteer resources.
The National AgrAbility Project (NAP) provides technical assistance, training, information dissemination to support SRAP teams and community-based rehabilitation and assistive technology service programs.
Eligibility
Applications must be submitted by Cooperative Extension at 1862 and 1890 Land-grant Universities, including:
- the University of the District of Columbia
- Tuskegee University
- West Virginia State University
- Central State University
Applicants must partner with private nonprofit organizations providing direct services to individuals with disabilities.
Awards
Visit the NIFA Reporting Portal for previous and current AgrAbility awards.
Legislative Authority
7 U.S.C. 5933—Assistive Technology Program for Farmers With Disabilities