USDA NIFA Data Management Plans (DMPs)

Last Updated April 16, 2026 Author: Michelle Sturdy

The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) requires data management plans (DMPs) as a part of nearly all research project proposals, including research, education, and extension projects. The University of Idaho provides the following resources to better understand the requirements and expectations of the agency, and how to develop plans.

In late 2025, NIFA started mplementing the multi-year Grants Management Initiative (GMI) to modernize its grant management system, processes, and policies. A new grants management system, eRA, will ultimately be adopted to improve cost efficiency and streamline the system. In March 2026, NIFA updated their Grants Application Guide, including the DMP requirements. The DMP document is limited to two pages that are not considered part of the project narrative.

General Information (pertains to 2026 DMP)

• National Institute of Food and Agriculture Grants Application Guide - describes the general preparation and requirements for NIFA grant applications, including the DMP requirements.
• Data Management Plan for NIFA-Funded Research, Education, and Extension Projects - describes the specific components to include in a ca. 2026 DMP.

Questions?

For assistance, contact either:

• Jeremy Kenyon, Library (jkenyon@uidaho.edu), or
• Andrew Child, RCDS (awchild@uidaho.edu) for assistance.