Have you experienced a weather event and are considering applying? Follow these steps to ensure your application is as strong as it can be.
Step 1: Apply within 45 calendar days of the weather event or disaster.
It’s your responsibility to monitor conditions, identify the qualifying event, and explain its impacts. Justify that response activities are still occurring and explain why this funding is important in the current moment.
Step 2: Scan available data sources to justify a direct need for rapid response activities.
Applicants may use data and/or information from National Weather Service, Farm Service Agency, FEMA, and other sources. Explain why your application reflects an urgent priority. A disaster declaration is not required to apply.
Step 3: Make sure to elaborate on the outreach and Extension components of your project.
The program encourages proposals with well-developed Extension and/or outreach activities. Provide a clear, strategic approach to reaching end users in your application materials.
Step 4: Study other successful proposals for inspiration and guidance.
You can read abstracts of previously funded projects in our database.
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Step 5: Complete all application forms and make sure they are up-to-date.
Be prepared to quickly respond to requests for information from NIFA staff.
Step 6: Contact us promptly with any questions.
General questions can be sent to afri-rapidresponse@usda.gov.
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