USDA Announces $26.8 Million Funding for Local Agriculture Initiatives

(Washington, D.C., March 10, 2026) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled its latest initiative, awarding over $26.8 million in grants through the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP). This program is designed to assist local and regional food entities in developing and enhancing producer-to-consumer marketing and food market initiatives.

Program Details

LAMP encompasses several key components, including the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP), the Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP), and the Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP).

Remarks from the Secretary of Agriculture

“Putting Farmers First means boosting the demand for locally grown food and connecting our farmers to expanding regional markets,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “The Local Agriculture Market Program is a critical component of USDA’s mission to foster robust local and regional food systems. This funding not only helps farmers tap into new markets and strengthen their businesses but also enhances economic resilience in rural communities. Families will gain improved access to fresh, locally sourced food, paving the way for healthier meals while supporting the farmers who cultivate them.”

Funding Distribution

Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP)

The FMPP will distribute nearly $11.1 million to 43 projects across 28 states and territories. This funding prioritizes initiatives that promote direct producer-to-consumer markets, including farmers markets, roadside stands, agritourism, community-supported agriculture programs, and online sales. For more details, refer to the FMPP FY2025 Description of Funded Projects.

Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP)

Similarly, the LFPP is allocating almost $11.1 million to 37 projects across 24 states and territories. This program focuses on supporting local and regional food businesses that act as intermediaries in the producer-to-consumer marketing process. The funded projects will enhance activities such as food processing, aggregation, distribution, and storage. More information can be found in the LFPP FY2025 Description of Funded Projects.

Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP)

Through the RFSP, approximately $4.7 million will be awarded to seven partnerships across 10 states. This program aims to strengthen relationships between local and regional food businesses and various institutions, including schools and hospitals, to integrate local foods into meal programs. Detailed project information is available at the RFSP FY2025 Description of Funded Projects.

Program Administration and Funding Requirements

LAMP and its associated grant programs are administered by the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and are supported by the 2018 Farm Bill. Applicants are required to match 25% of the federal funds being requested. For comprehensive details, visit the LAMP webpage.

Conclusion

The USDA continues to promote opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural products while enhancing consumer access to fresh and healthy options. Through research, technical services, and federally funded grants, the projects supported by LAMP are poised to create a more resilient and interconnected local and regional food ecosystem.

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