USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is currently accepting applications for their Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) and Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) to support local and regional food systems.  Applications for both program applications are due March 27, 2017.

FMPP grants fund farmer-to consumer direct marketing projects such as farmers markets, community-supported agriculture programs, roadside stands, and agritourism.  $13 million is available for FMPP, and the minimum and maximum awards are $50,000 and $500,000.

LFPP grants fund local and regional food business enterprises that serve as intermediaries to process, distribute, aggregate, and store locally or regionally produced food products. Projects also provide technical assistance and outreach, including planning grants for local food businesses.  $13 million is also available for LFPP for minimum and maximum awards ranging between $25,000 to $500,000.