USDA opens $27.7M in grants for farmers markets, direct-to-consumer programs
Eligible operators and food businesses should review requirements and apply via Grants.gov by June 5, 2026.
USDA just announced $32.4 million in grant funding is now available through the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) to support local farm market operations and public-private food partnerships.
Of the total amount, $27.68 million is allocated to the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) and the Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP). The funding supports farm market operators and related direct-to-consumer outlets, and FMPP specifically funds projects that develop, coordinate and expand local farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, agritourism activities and online direct-to-consumer sales platforms. LFPP supports businesses that act as intermediaries—such as food hubs, shared-use kitchens, and food incubators—connecting producers to consumers.
The remaining $4.71 million is available through the Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP) program. USDA says it supports public-private partnerships focused on strengthening relationships among producers, processors, distributors, and institutional buyers.
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The grant programs are administered by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and are funded through the 2018 Farm Bill. Applicants are required to provide a 25% cash match of the federal funds requested.
Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on June 5, 2026. Late applications will not be considered unless accompanied by documentation of extenuating circumstances.
More information about each program is available at:
- FMPP: www.ams.usda.gov/fmpp
- LFPP: www.ams.usda.gov/lfpp
- RFSP: www.ams.usda.gov/rfsp
Program-specific questions can be directed to:
- FMPP/LFPP: FMLFPPGrants@usda.gov
- RFSP: IPPGrants@usda.gov