By Scout Nelson
Kansas State University (K-State) will suspend its two Feed the Future Innovation Labs on April 12, following federal funding cuts affecting several U.S. research institutions. These labs, which have contributed to global food security and agricultural advancements for over a decade, are among many programs impacted by recent federal transitions.
In January, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service issued stop-work orders for multiple grant-funded initiatives. By February, some of these orders turned into grant terminations, affecting ongoing research on crop resilience, food security, and agricultural sustainability. At K-State, these changes will lead to nine job losses while other scholars and researchers transition to different projects.
Since launching its first Feed the Future Innovation Lab in 2013, K-State has played a significant role in improving global food systems. The university’s research has contributed to crop development, pest and disease control, and food safety improvements, reinforcing its 160-year legacy in agricultural innovation.
A 2022 study by K-State highlighted the economic benefits of U.S. international agricultural research, showing that every $1 invested between 1978 and 2018 generated $8.52 in economic returns. This research has supported U.S. agriculture by boosting farm productivity, increasing food availability, and enhancing sustainability.
The affected programs have delivered key benefits, including:
- Developing resilient crop varieties like wheat and sorghum to withstand climate challenges.
- Strengthening food security by protecting agricultural systems from pests and diseases.
- Improving post-harvest food storage for better food safety.
Despite these setbacks, K-State remains committed to agricultural research and innovation. University leaders reaffirm their dedication to supporting global food security, biosecurity, and sustainable farming, ensuring that Kansas and beyond continue to benefit from scientific advancements.
"While these specific programs are ceasing or pausing, K-State remains committed to advancing and enhancing global food systems and biosecurity and helping Kansas farmers overcome current and future challenges," said Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture.
Photo Credit: kansas-state-university
Categories: Kansas, Business, Crops, Corn