CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS (CIG) CLASSIC PROGRAM
About
The CIG program stimulates the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies in conjunction with agricultural production. CIG projects are expected to lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches (such as market-based systems) to agricultural producers through the development of technical manuals, guides, and for practical instruction for the private sector. Applications will be accepted from all non-Federal entities and individuals based in the United States (see Section B Eligibility). Application deadline: Submit via Grants. gov by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on July 27, 2026. A webinar for CIG Classic applicants is scheduled for June 18, 2026 at 3 p. m. Eastern Time. Information on how to participate in the Microsoft Teams webinar can be obtained through the following link and phone number: https://events. gcc. teams. microsoft. com/event/397aeb03-fb5b-4d7b-803d-6753acad2a03@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697 Email questions on this webinar to nrcscig@usda. gov. Applicants are encouraged to visit the CIG website to learn more about the CIG program. The agency anticipates making selections by 4th quarter of calendar year 2026 and expects to execute awards by 4th quarter of calendar year 2026. These dates are estimates and are subject to change.
The Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) Classic Program is a federal initiative designed to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies that work alongside agricultural production. This grant opportunity is ideal for agricultural innovators, conservation technology developers, and entrepreneurs seeking to advance sustainable farming practices across the United States. The program funds projects that lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches—including market-based solutions—to agricultural producers. Successful projects result in practical deliverables such as technical manuals, guides, and instruction materials for the private sector. With funding ranging from $250,000 to $2,000,000, CIG Classic supports entrepreneurs and organizations working to bridge the gap between conservation innovation and real-world agricultural adoption. If you're developing cutting-edge conservation solutions and want to scale their impact across American farms, this grant provides substantial resources to translate your innovation into actionable tools for producers. The program welcomes applications from non-Federal entities and individuals throughout the United States, making it accessible to a wide range of conservation-focused entrepreneurs and organizations.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
July 27, 2026
Award Amount
$250K - $2M
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
$250K - $2M
Deadline
2026-07-27
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Deadline: July 27, 2026)
Best For
Agricultural innovators, conservation technology developers, entrepreneurs advancing sustainable farming practices
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to all non-Foreign applicants, except US Federal Government Entities.The following applicants are considered ineligible:• Foreign organizations and foreign public entities, and• “Partnerships” or other similar groupings (i.e., application must be submitted by a single entity; a partner may serve as a subrecipient).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS (CIG) CLASSIC PROGRAM?
The program is open to all non-Federal entities and individuals based in the United States. Ineligible applicants include foreign organizations, foreign public entities, and 'partnerships' or similar groupings where an application must be submitted by a single entity (though partners may serve as subrecipients). For complete eligibility details and to confirm your organization's status, visit the official CIG website or contact the program directly at nrcscig@usda.gov.
How much funding does CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS (CIG) CLASSIC PROGRAM provide?
The CIG Classic Program provides grants ranging from $250,000 to $2,000,000 per project. The specific amount awarded depends on project scope, innovation level, and anticipated impact on agricultural conservation adoption. Contact the program or review the official guidelines for details on funding allocation criteria.
How do I apply for CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS (CIG) CLASSIC PROGRAM?
Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on July 27, 2026. Before applying, applicants are encouraged to attend the CIG Classic webinar scheduled for June 18, 2026 at 3 p.m. Eastern Time (join via Microsoft Teams at https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/397aeb03-fb5b-4d7b-803d-6753acad2a03@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697). For webinar questions, email nrcscig@usda.gov. The agency anticipates making selections and executing awards by the 4th quarter of 2026. Visit the CIG website for detailed application instructions and eligibility requirements.
What can CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS (CIG) CLASSIC PROGRAM funding be used for?
Funding supports the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies integrated with agricultural production. Projects should lead to transferable conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches (such as market-based systems) to agricultural producers. Deliverables typically include technical manuals, guides, and practical instruction materials for the private sector. Visit the official CIG website for examples of fundable project types and specific guidelines.
Last updated: July 5, 2026