USDA Grants $33M for Agriculture Projects at 19 HBCU Land-Grant Institutions
July 25, 2023The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is set to provide $33 million in funding for agricultural projects at 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that are also land-grant institutions. This initiative aims to promote research, education, and extension activities in the field of agriculture.
The funding is part of the USDA’s capacity-building effort to boost academic and infrastructural capabilities at HBCUs. The goal is to improve agricultural practices, foster innovation, and strengthen the future workforce in the agricultural sector.
The selected institutions will undertake a diverse range of projects that span various facets of agriculture. Some of the key initiatives include research into sustainable agricultural practices, the development of new crop varieties, and community outreach programs for improved nutrition.
“By investing in HBCU land-grant universities, we’re investing in the future of the agricultural sector,” a USDA spokesperson stated. “These institutions play a critical role in developing the next generation of leaders in agriculture, and this funding will help them continue that important work.”
The initiative has been welcomed by the heads of the recipient institutions. They underscored the significance of the funding in enabling their institutions to fulfill their mission in agricultural education and research. The impact of these projects is expected to be wide-reaching, benefiting not only students and researchers but also local communities and the broader agricultural sector.
This USDA funding represents a significant commitment to promoting diversity and innovation in the agricultural sector. By supporting the critical work of these HBCUs, it seeks to drive progress and sustainability in American agriculture.
