Accessing Agricultural Data Science Funding in Kansas
GrantID: 11427
Grant Funding Amount Low: $32,500
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $97,500
Summary
Grant Overview
Kansas' Agricultural Data Science for Recent Graduates
Kansas is a state intricately linked to its agricultural heritage, producing over 20% of the nation's wheat and a significant portion of its corn and beef. However, with the emergence of data-driven agricultural practices, there exists a gap in workforce skills that threatens the efficiency and sustainability of this vital industry. A study by the Kansas Department of Agriculture shows that nearly 70% of farms in Kansas are family-owned and lack the technological expertise to implement data analytics effectively, resulting in suboptimal yields and resource management.
Graduates in Kansas who aspire to work in agriculture often face barriers in accessing real-time data and learning new technologies that can revolutionize farming practices. Many have educational backgrounds in traditional agricultural studies but lack specialized training in data science and its application in agriculture. With agriculture facing challenges from climate change, economic pressures, and fluctuating market demands, the need for a new generation of data-literate agricultural professionals has never been more critical.
The funding established for supporting recent graduates in agricultural data science addresses these challenges head-on. Eligible applicants are those with a degree in agricultural sciences, data analytics, or a related field, and who have shown an interest in using data to enhance agricultural productivity. This initiative prioritizes partnerships with Kansas agribusiness firms, which will provide mentorship and practical training to help graduates acquire the necessary skills to utilize data effectively in agricultural settings.
Application requirements include the submission of a project proposal that outlines how the graduate intends to use data science to address specific challenges faced by local farms. This ensures that the solutions developed are relevant to the Kansas agricultural landscape. Moreover, successful candidates will have the opportunity to conduct research that directly informs local agricultural practices and contributes to the overall sustainability of the state’s farming industry.
By cultivating a new workforce skilled in agricultural data science, Kansas aims to enhance crop yields and optimize resource usage across its agricultural sector. This initiative not only supports recent graduates in finding meaningful employment but also strengthens local agriculture by ensuring that farms are equipped to meet contemporary challenges through data-informed decision-making.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
