The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) is a renowned workplace charitable giving campaign that is authorized to request the participation of federal employees in their workplaces. It is structured to promote philanthropy through a cost-effective and effective voluntary program. The USDA energy website provides an interactive map, graphic analysis tools, and the USDA energy matrix, which allow users to view past investments, navigate an environment friendly to USDA energy programs, and compare and analyze USDA biofuel and bioenergy data. Agricultural research and development (R&D) is a critical factor in agricultural productivity, production, food prices, and poverty alleviation.
To increase the chances of a successful rural transformation, six basic elements of a national agricultural plan have been identified. These include generating new technologies and improved policies, which are essential drivers of agricultural productivity growth and resilience. The Department of Agriculture, the International Food and Agricultural Development Board, and the Association of Public and Land Subsidy Universities of USAID have published a new strategy for agricultural research. Organic agriculture has become a multi-billion dollar industry over the past two decades, with many countries investing in domestic agricultural extension services to support agricultural transformation.
The United States remains a leader in agricultural science publications, citations, and patents. However, there is a disparity between the high volatility of R&D investments and the disproportionately low share of global agricultural R&D for low-income countries. To address this issue, stakeholders involved in agricultural research and development should invest in agricultural innovation to improve production, marketing or distribution systems. The Department of Agriculture has programs that cover various aspects of agriculture such as chemistry, engineering, plant pathology and microbiology, entomology and zoology, soil science, botany and weed science, crop protection, rice research, field crops research (including corn and legume research).
Major agricultural universities include Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), Gadjah Mada University, Hasanuddin University, Mataram University, Sam Ratulangi University, Sebelas Maret University, Andalas University, Haluoleo University, Brawijaya University, Padjadjaran University. The Organic Research and Extension Initiative (OREI) project grants have been awarded to universities such as Oregon State University, Clemson University, and the University of Wisconsin; NGOs such as the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES); and agencies such as the Colorado Department of Agriculture and the Agricultural Research Service. Agricultural schools with land concessions are often forced to accept funding from agricultural companies whose interests may not always align with those of producers or education services. To maximize the potential of agricultural research and development initiatives for rural transformation it is essential to invest in innovative technologies that can improve production systems. This includes investing in improved policies that can drive productivity growth while also providing support for extension services that can help farmers access new technologies.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that funding from agricultural companies aligns with the interests of producers or education services. By taking these steps it is possible to maximize the potential of R&D initiatives for rural transformation.
