The Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials for 2026 aim to support projects that help farmers and producers adopt new conservation practices. The focus areas include irrigation management, grazing land management, nutrient management, and soil health. The program offers up to $50 million in funding, with individual awards ranging from $250,000 to $5,000,000. Projects can last between 3 to 5 years.
Who it's for: This grant is for a wide range of applicants, including state and local governments, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, educational institutions, nonprofits, and for-profit organizations. Individuals can also apply.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting after the deadline of July 27, 2026
- Not addressing one of the specified priority areas
- Ineligible applicant type
What You May Need
- Completed application form on Grants.gov
- Project proposal addressing priority areas
- Budget plan
- Proof of eligibility (e.g., 501(c)(3) status for nonprofits)
- Technical assistance plan for producers
- Incentive payment strategy
Cautions
- Ensure your project aligns with one of the priority areas
- Be prepared for a competitive selection process
- Keep track of all deadlines and webinar dates
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include state governments, city or township governments, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, county governments, special district governments, individuals, public and state institutions of higher education, nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status, other Native American tribal organizations, private institutions of higher education, and for-profit organizations.
Overview
This grant is for a wide range of applicants, including state and local governments, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, educational institutions, nonprofits, and for-profit organizations. Individuals can also apply.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Submitting after the deadline of July 27, 2026
- Not addressing one of the specified priority areas
- Ineligible applicant type
Use of Funds
Funds can be used to recruit producers, provide them with technical assistance, and offer incentive payments to encourage the adoption of innovative conservation practices.
Total Program Funding
$50,000,000
Expected Awards
30
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- May 26, 2026
- Deadline
- Jul 27, 2026(44 days)
- Archive Date
- Aug 26, 2026
- Est. Award Date (AI estimate)
- 4th quarter 2026
Application Checklist
- Register on Grants.gov
- Attend the webinar on June 17, 2026
- Prepare a detailed project proposal
- Develop a budget and financial plan
- Submit application by July 27, 2026