USDA Announces Opening of Application Period for Regional Agricultural Promotion Program

Regional Agricultural Promotion Program Supports American Producers in Developing Sustainable Markets

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2023 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the first tranche of funding under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP). This program aims to provide financial support to eligible projects that enable exporters to enter new markets and increase their market share in growth markets. The USDA has allocated up to $300 million in funding for the first year of RAPP, with a total budget of $1.2 billion over five years.

Supporting Market Diversification and Sustainable Development Goals

The RAPP funds are available to non-profit U.S. agricultural trade organizations, non-profit State Regional Trade Groups (SRTGs), U.S. agricultural cooperatives, and state agencies that conduct approved market development activities. The program aims to foster expanded exports and market diversification by encouraging the development, maintenance, and expansion of diverse commercial export markets for U.S. agricultural commodities and products.

Market diversification plays a crucial role in maximizing growth opportunities for U.S. agriculture and mitigating the risks associated with market contraction and global market volatility. The USDA is committed to promoting export opportunities in diverse and non-traditional markets, ensuring that U.S. agricultural commodities and products are accessible to diverse consumer groups.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are at the forefront of RAPP’s objectives. By supporting market diversification and expanding exports, the program contributes to SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Eligibility and Targeted Regions

The first tranche of RAPP funding excludes the current top export markets, including China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Canada, Mexico, and the European Union. However, all other markets, except those with sanctions or legal barriers, are eligible for funding. The program places special emphasis on three regions: Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, and South/Southeast Asia. Out of the total funding available for the first tranche of RAPP, $25 million will be specifically allocated to fund activities in Africa.

Future Funding and Performance Period

The USDA plans to release future tranches of funds in subsequent years to adapt to changing trade environments and market conditions. RAPP awards will generally have a performance period of five years, starting from June 1, 2024, to September 30, 2029.

Application Details

Interested applicants must submit their applications by 5 p.m. ET on Feb. 2, 2024. Additional information on RAPP and the application process can be found at grants.gov.

USDA’s Agribusiness Trade Missions for 2024

In addition to RAPP, the USDA has announced its planned agribusiness trade missions for 2024. These missions will include visits to markets such as Seoul, Korea; New Delhi, India; Vancouver, Canada; Bogota, Colombia; Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (with buyers from Thailand); and Casablanca, Morocco (with buyers from Senegal and Francophone West Africa). These trade missions aim to further expand market opportunities for American producers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

USDA’s Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture

The USDA plays a vital role in transforming America’s food system and promoting sustainable agriculture. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, the USDA focuses on resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, access to safe and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and income streams for farmers using climate-smart practices, investing in rural infrastructure and clean energy capabilities, and promoting equity across the Department. To learn more about USDA’s initiatives, visit www.usda.gov.

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