1. Will farmers benefit?
We certainly hope so! As producers adopt advanced technology and information systems, the opportunities to benefit from the data collected to improve operations, sustainability, and profitability will multiply. These benefits will depend on investments in infrastructure and education around data-driven systems as well as partnerships in data-driven agriculture between producers, land grant universities, and the private sector. We want to ensure that producers have access and control of their data and a network of trusted partners who can help turn data into improved data-driven management decisions.
2. Can farmers/producers apply for funds?
Yes. As long as you are associated with an institution that is eligible for USDA funding. See USDA NIFA Part III, A for eligibility information.
3. Will the framework have X or integrate Y?
We don’t know! One of the goals of this funding mechanism is to determine what components of a data framework are of value to you and your community, and are considered critical or essential to an effective framework.
4. Can you help me with my data now?
Yes and no. We can point you to existing organizations that may be able to assist, depending upon your needs. Use our contact page to reach out, and join our listserv to receive information about education and training opportunities. However, direct assistance from the NAPDC team is outside of the scope of this project.
5. What might be some outcomes of the convening grants?
6. Will there be additional calls for proposals?
7. What's the timeline for this work?
The initial phase of the NAPDC will proceed through February 2023. The current plan is to move from this initial information-gathering and planning stage to the second phase of NAPDC development focused on pilot studies, use cases, and proof-of-principle projects that are critical to the framework.
8. I don’t want to apply for a grant, how can I be involved?
There are several ways to be involved outside of the convening grant mechanism. We host monthly webinars and you can nominate your community or yourself to host a webinar; see
9. I am not in the US, can I still be involved?
Yes! You are welcome to attend our monthly webinars. You can also apply for a grant with a lead PI from an eligible institution. Your suggestions and input are also welcome; please use the contact us form on the project website.