The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Institute of Food and Agriculture, has announced the solicitation for the \"Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) - Phase I, Fiscal Year 2018.\"
The Aquaculture topic area aims to develop new technologies that will enhance the knowledge and technology base necessary for the expansion of the domestic aquaculture industry as a form of production agriculture.
Emphasis is placed on research leading to improved production efficiency and increased competitiveness of private sector, commercial aquaculture in the United States. Studies on commercially important, or potentially important, species of fish, shellfish and aquatic plants from both freshwater and marine environments are included. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on October 5, 2017.
View the full funding opportunity announcement
The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research will invest up to $5 million for research that will improve economic opportunities for U.S. farmers and increase the supply of domestically-produced, nutritious foods. The Foundation is committed to supporting research on the following topics:
- Genomics and breeding of understudied shellfish species, including mussels, clams, scallops for improved performance parameters.
- Hatchery research, including best early stage life cycle production practices for commercial fish.
- Market-based analyses for new species and/or production regions.
