National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), an extramural funding agency within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) invests in and advances agricultural research, education and extension. Aquaculture research and extension has been one of the areas NIFA has supported over the years. Annually, NIFA invests millions of dollars to advance aquaculture research and outreach. Recently, the agency has been 'reimagining' its values and 'customer service' as it transitions its headquarters. Similar to some of the other programs, NIFA's Aquaculture program in its current form is being evaluated for its effectiveness, efficiency, and service delivery to the aquaculture industry.
The presentation will highlight some of the changes taking place in NIFA and its implications to aquaculture programming, personnel and grant management. It will also provide a number of aquaculture research and extension funding opportunities beyond the traditional outlets. This session will also seek input from its stakeholders (researchers and industry) so as to utilize this knowledge in reimagining delivery of its mission effectively and efficiently.