This technical assistance webinar will provide an overview of the FY26 Professional Development for Agricultural Literacy (PDAL) program goals and priorities, application submission guidelines, peer review process, and resources to aid in submitting an application to NIFA.
The PDAL program, part of the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative's Education and Workforce Development program area, seeks to increase the number of K-14 education professionals trained in the food and agricultural sciences. Participants (teachers, postbaccalaureate pre-service teachers, counselors, administrators) are expected to:
- develop and apply skills necessary for integrating food and agricultural science concepts in their classes
- explore the opportunities available in food and agricultural science career paths
- forge mentorships with professional and business leaders, and faculty at 2- or 4-year institutions.
Read more about the program in the AFRI EWD Notice of Funding Opportunity; the application deadline is March 19, 2026. General questions about the PDAL program can be submitted to A7501@usda.gov.
Reasonable Accommodation and Language Access
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this event, please contact thge PDAL program team at A7501@usda.gov no later than 10 days prior to the event.
NIFA offers language access services, such as interpretation and translation of vital information, free of charge. If you need interpretation or translation services, please visit NIFA Language Access Services or contact NIFA's Office of Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights at sm.nifa.eeo@usda.gov.