Tribal Colleges Extension Program (TCEP)

Applications must be received by Grants.gov by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on March 16, 2011.

The purpose of the TCEP is to build capacity of the 1994 institutions to deliver science-based, culturally relevant extension education programs designed to address public needs and improve quality of life. The TCEP is intended to be a component of the applicant 1994 institution's land-grant road map or strategic planning process. To the extent practicable, proposed activities should assist in addressing the following national critical needs areas: (1) Development of sustainable energy; (2) Increased global food security; (3) Adaptation of agriculture and natural resources to global climate change; (4) Reduction of childhood and adolescent obesity; and (5) Improved food safety. Extension programs encompass six key mission areas: (1) Agriculture -- educational programs help individuals learn new ways to produce income through alternative enterprises, improved marketing strategies, and management skills and help farmers, foresters and ranchers improve productivity through resource management, controlling crop pests, soil testing, livestock production practices, and marketing; (2) 4-H Youth Development -- builds important life skills in youth that build character and assist them in making appropriate life and career choices. At-risk youth participate in school retention and enrichment programs. Youth learn science, math, social skills, and much more, through hands-on projects and activities; (3) Leadership Development -- trains extension professionals and volunteers to deliver programs in gardening, health and safety, family and consumer issues, and 4-H youth development and serve in leadership roles in the community; (4) Natural Resources -- informs landowners and homeowners how to achieve sustainable use of natural resources and enhance environmental values with educational programs in water quality, water conservation, timber management, composting, lawn waste management, and recycling; (5) Family and Consumer Sciences -- enhances families' resiliency and health by teaching nutrition, food preparation skills, positive child care, family communication, financial management, and health care strategies; (6) Community and Economic Development -- helps local governments investigate and create viable options for economic and community development, such as improved job creation and retention, small and medium-sized business development, effective and coordinated emergency response, solid waste disposal, tourism development, workforce education, and land use planning.

History of Funds:

In FY10 approximately $4,300,000 was made available to fund projects under this program. Abstracts of recently funded projects are available at by following the link provided at http://www.csrees.usda.gov/funding/rfas/tribal_extension.html.

Average Award:

Varies

Name: Tim Grosser, National Program Leader

Department: U. S. Department of Agriculture

Street: Waterfront Centre

Room 4345

Email: tgrosser@nifa.usda.gov