Deadline: 23-Jan-2026

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is offering funding under the America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) to expand international markets for U.S. agricultural commodities. Eligible nonprofit organizations, cooperatives, and state agencies can apply to share costs for marketing and promotional activities, strengthen existing markets, and develop new export opportunities, with total funding of $285 million available.

Program Overview

The America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) is designed to:

• Support U.S. agricultural producers in developing, maintaining, and diversifying export markets

• Share costs of international marketing and promotional activities

• Exclude tobacco as a commodity focus

• Encourage both traditional and first-time participants to explore innovative market strategies

• Enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. agriculture

Funding Details

• Total Funding Available: $285 million

• Maximum Award: Program-specific, based on proposal evaluation and budget justification

• Eligible Activities Include: Trade shows, marketing campaigns, promotional events, and other initiatives that increase U.S. agricultural exports

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Nonprofit U.S. agricultural trade organizations

• Nonprofit state regional trade groups

• U.S. agricultural cooperatives

• U.S. state agencies promoting agricultural exports

Priority is given to organizations that:

• Have not previously participated in USDA market development programs

• Demonstrate innovative approaches or target non-traditional markets

Why This Funding Matters

• Expands global market access for U.S. agricultural commodities

• Strengthens export competitiveness for American farmers, ranchers, and producers

• Encourages innovation and strategic market development

• Supports long-term economic growth in the agricultural sector

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Verify Eligibility: Confirm that your organization meets the nonprofit, cooperative, or state agency criteria

2. Prepare Proposal: Include:

   • Detailed marketing and promotional plan

   • Budget aligned with AFTPP guidelines

   • Justification for how activities will expand or strengthen export markets

3. Highlight Innovation: Show new strategies, target non-traditional markets, or introduce fresh approaches for market expansion

4. Submit Application: Follow USDA/FAS submission requirements and deadlines

5. Review and Award: Applications are evaluated on feasibility, potential impact on exports, and alignment with program goals

Tips for a Successful Application

• Focus on measurable market expansion outcomes

• Include cost-sharing details and clearly define eligible expenses

• Demonstrate experience in agricultural export promotion

• Highlight potential long-term benefits to U.S. producers and the agricultural sector

• Ensure compliance with all USDA/FAS application and reporting guidelines

FAQ

1. Can organizations that previously received AFTPP funding apply?
Yes, but priority is given to first-time applicants. Returning organizations must demonstrate innovative strategies or new market initiatives.

2. Are all agricultural commodities eligible?
All except tobacco.

3. Who decides on the funding awards?
USDA/FAS evaluates proposals based on eligibility, impact, innovation, and alignment with program objectives.

4. What types of activities are supported?
Trade shows, marketing campaigns, promotional events, market research, and other efforts to increase U.S. agricultural exports.

5. How is funding distributed?
Funding is reimbursable based on approved activities and cost-sharing arrangements.

Conclusion

The AFTPP offers U.S. agricultural trade organizations, cooperatives, and state agencies a strategic opportunity to enhance export markets, develop innovative promotional initiatives, and strengthen the international presence of American agricultural commodities. This program supports sustainable economic growth for U.S. producers and contributes to a robust, globally competitive agricultural sector.

For more information, visit Grants.gov.