In carrying out the program, NIFA is authorized to make awards under section 7526 of the FCEA to eligible entities (as designated in section 7526(b)(1)(A)-(F) of the FCEA) to fund subgrants and activities that:

1. (a) Enhance national energy security through the development, distribution, and implementation of biobased energy technologies;
2. (b) Promote diversification in, and the environmental sustainability of, agricultural production in the United States through biobased energy and product technologies;
3. (c) Promote economic diversification in rural areas of the United States through biobased energy and product technologies; and
4. (d) Enhance the efficiency of bioenergy and biomass research and development programs through improved coordination and collaboration among the Department, other appropriate Federal agencies (as determined by the Secretary), and land-grant colleges and universities.

[75 FR 70580, Nov. 18, 2010, as amended at 81 FR 6418, Feb. 8, 2016]