Grassroots Research Grants, previously known as “Tier 2 Grants”, are intended to create, validate, or demonstrate new innovative technologies or best management practices that promote and improve sustainable crop production and soil, water, and air management in Ontario. Funding is provided by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), from the Ontario Ministry of Agricultural Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), through the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA), to the Regional Soil and Crop Improvement Associations. Each Grassroots Research Grant is a 3-year, $15,000-per-year funding award. The research projects will take place on working farms, and be run by the Regional Association, with technical advice available from an assigned OMAFRA field team specialist and OSCIA provincial office staff.
OSCIA will be evaluating potential projects in a two-stage approach: Letters of Intent or LOI (Stage 1) and Full Proposals (Stage 2). An LOI is an opportunity to provide a preliminary research concept at a high-level, and signal interest in preparing a research proposal. Stage 1 will allow OSCIA to connect Regional Associations with research experts to fully develop their projects and ensure strong research principles are supported. This process will ensure that the time committed by Regional applicants to project planning is invested efficiently and effectively, and funding supports the strongest projects possible. More information about the Grassroots Research Grants, the application process, and future opportunities was shared with Local and Regional SCIA Directors, Presidents, Secretaries and Regional Communication Coordinators by email. Interested Regional SCIAs must submit a Letter of Intent by April 22, 2024.
If you have an idea for a research project or want to get involved in a grassroots research project, members should contact their Local and Regional SCIA leadership for more information. Questions can be directed to research@ontariosoilcrop.org.
Sustainable CAP is a five-year, $3.5B investment by federal-provincial-territorial governments which reflects the principles of sustainable development, allowing the agriculture and agri-food sector to meet the needs of today, and grow for tomorrow.