The focus of this topic area is not primarily the development of new innovative technology, but rather the innovative application of technology to address problems and opportunities that exist in rural areas.
Proposals can deal with any technology so long as the focus is on rural areas.
It is usually not acceptable for university faculty to serve as consultants and have all the research done in their lab. There is a different review panel for each topic area. An outstanding research scientist is selected as topic manager for each review panel. Proposals are initially screened and then assigned to the appropriate topic area. Each proposal is sent to six ad hoc reviewers who mail in written reviews.