United States National Science Foundation Offered $7 Million Grant to Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University has earned the largest single grant in its history from the National Science Foundation: $7 million. The university stated Thursday that the award will be used for agriculture technology research and teaching, with a focus on improving nutrient management, food safety, and the sustainability of soil-less agriculture systems in Kentucky.

“What a great day it is for Kentucky and for Kentucky State University,” said Koffi Akakpo, president of KSU. “We could not be more proud of the work completed everyday here on campus and throughout the Commonwealth. NSF, along with our partners in this endeavor see our potential and the impact we will have for years to come.”

The DARE-KY project is a collaboration between KSU, Bluegrass Community and Technical College, the University of Pikeville, Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation, and FoodChain Inc. The award covers $3.8 million each year in 2024 and 2025, with the project and study lasting until 2028, according to KSU.

“I see this as the beginning of a lot more achievements to come,” said Aaron Thompson, president of the Kentucky Council of Postsecondary Education. “This is the kind of grant that gives you the base to build on other possibilities and other outcomes.”

The National Science Foundation of the United States is an independent federal agency that funds basic research and education in all non-medical science and engineering disciplines. Its medical counterpart is the National Institutes of Health.