North Central Regional Center for Rural Development Small Grants

North Central Regional Center for Rural Development is accepting proposals for the 2026 Small Grants for Rural Development Research and/or Extension Projects in the North Central Region. Apply by March 16, 2026.

These seed grants aim to enhance the ability of the region’s 34 land-grant institutions to positively influence the quality of life in rural areas of the twelve-states in the North Central Region through research and Extension projects.

• Proposal submission deadline: Monday, March 16, 2026 by 5:00 pm ET.
• Funding limit: $20,000
• Project time limit: 12 months

NCRCRDs Small Grants funding opportunity is offered once a year! Plan to submit your proposal on or before March 16, 2026 by 5:00 pm ET!

To find out more about this opportunity, visit: Small Grants Program RFP

Additional NCRCRD Grant Opportunities
In addition to the Small Grants Program, NCRCRD offers three other funding opportunities for the North Central Region. Unlike the Small Grant Program, NCRCRD accepts proposals for the following grants throughout 2026 on a rotating basis.

• Fellows Program: NCRCRD Fellows collaborate with the Center to pursue research and/or outreach projects that benefit the North Central Region.
• Extension Collaboration and Implementation Grants: This grant assists North Central Region land-grant institutions to implement an Extension program from a land-grant institution in another state within the region. 
• Thematic Working Groups: This grant seeks to facilitate multi-state regional and enduring collaboration that leads to relevant regional outputs. A minimum of six North Central states must be represented.

Don't miss out! Discover all of NCRCRD's grant opportunities available in 2026.