# Anheuser-Busch Funds Arkansas Rice Research

Anheuser-Busch has awarded a **$130,000 grant** to the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture's Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station in 2026 to support rice research focused on improving rice quality, brewing applications, sustainable crop management, and water stewardship. This funding is part of a broader investment exceeding $200,000 aimed at advancing innovation in the rice industry and supporting Arkansas rice producers, who are the nation's leading rice growers. The partnership highlights opportunities for contractors and researchers specializing in agricultural technology, water conservation, and value-added rice product development.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals and contractors in agricultural research and technology can leverage this funding trend to engage with university-led projects and industry partnerships focused on sustainable crop production and product innovation.
- The grant underscores the importance of collaboration between private sector companies and academic institutions to drive agricultural advancements relevant to food and beverage supply chains.
- Organizations involved in water stewardship and sustainable farming practices may find new opportunities to contribute to research initiatives supported by similar grants.
- This development signals potential for expanded funding and procurement opportunities in agricultural research sectors tied to major commodity producers and processors.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 14, 2026

### Government Entities
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture (UADA)
- Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station

### Vendors
- Anheuser-Busch (Grant provider and major rice purchaser)

### Key Quotes
> Great beer starts with great ingredients, and great ingredients start with farmers.
> — Damola Oshin, Chief Procurement Officer, Anheuser-Busch

### Sources
- [Anheuser-Busch grant supports Arkansas rice research -](https://arkadelphian.com/2026/09/14/anheuser-busch-grant-supports-arkansas-rice-research) - The Arkadelphian