USDA and FFAR Recommend Three Projects for Innovation Challenge Funding

USDA and the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) announced three projects recommended for funding through the “Nourishing Next Generation Agrifood Breakthroughs” (Innovation Challenge). Columbia University will receive $500,000 to fund its partnership with the University of Puerto Rico to support historically underserved producers in Puerto Rico in cultivating climate-resilient and heritage rice with sustainable management practices while creating new local market opportunities. Meanwhile, the University of British Columbia will work with USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) to develop a novel, nutrient-dense and climate-smart coating used during the post-harvest process to increase access to and availability of highly perishable fresh produce. That work will also receive $500,000 in funding. Finally, From the Land, LLC, will receive $150.000 for a project that will enrich mealworms to increase the quantity of essential fats in poultry feed.