The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is taking applications until June 27 for their Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) and their Local Food Promotion Program(LFPP). They are funded through the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP).
Both grants are available to Tribal governments and any Alaska Native Village defined in Section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.
Although the deadline is not until June 27, the application process may take time if Tribes need to establish accounts with various federal grant systems.
These programs can be used to strengthen health and nutrition while also promoting economic development at the local, Tribal level.
Farmers Market Promotion Program
FMPP is not limited to farmers markets but can help with any local direct producer-to-consumer markets. This can mean a roadside stand or other similar ventures. AMS anticipates around $11 million being available for this grant program, with a 25 percent cost share required.
The types of ventures that can be funded under FMPP are:
- 36-month Capacity Building;
- 36-month Community Development Training and Technical Assistance;
- 24-month Turnkey Marketing and Promotion; and
- 24-month Turnkey Recruitment and Training.
Local Food Promotion Program
LFPP is a grant that can benefit those who are in a facilitation role between producers and consumers, such as local and regional businesses. AMS anticipates around $11million being available for this grant program, with a 25 percent cost share required.
The types of ventures that can be funded under LFPP are:
- 24-month Planning;
- 36-month Implementation;
- 24-month Turnkey Marketing and Promotion; and
- 24-month Turnkey Recruitment and Training.
More information can be found in the request for applications of the FMPP or LFPP. AMS has information on the agency’s website discussing how to apply for FMPP, which can be found here, and how to apply for LFPP, which can be found here.
For Tribes interested in learning more, AMS will be hosting office hours for questions on June 3 and June 17 from 2-3 p.m. eastern. Registration for office hours is required here on the bottom of the page. AMS can be contacted at FMLFPPgrants@usda.gov for questions regarding these grants.