Food for Progress Program Notice of Funding Opportunity Fiscal Year 2026
The Food for Progress Program offers US agricultural commodities to developing countries to boost agricultural productivity and trade, promote free enterprise, and support local development using generated proceeds.
Funder: Foreign Agricultural Service
Due Dates: June 19, 2026 (Questions) | July 6, 2026 (Full application due by 5:00 P.M. EDT)
Funding Amounts: Estimated total funding: up to $226 million | Individual awards: $28M–$35M | 4–5 year projects | ~7 awards expected
Summary: Supports projects that increase agricultural productivity and expand trade in developing countries through monetization of U.S. commodities and reinvestment in agricultural development.
Key Information: Applications must be submitted via FAIS; cost share not required but may be considered for bonus points.
Description
The Food for Progress Program, administered by the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, funds projects that help developing countries and emerging democracies introduce and expand free enterprise in the agricultural sector. The program achieves its objectives by donating U.S. agricultural commodities, which are sold in local markets. The proceeds are then used to support agricultural development activities—including technical assistance, infrastructure, and access to finance—to improve productivity and trade capacity.
All funded projects must include the monetization of U.S. commodities, with proceeds supporting activities that:
- Increase agricultural productivity (e.g., improved inputs, technology adoption, extension services)
- Expand trade of agricultural products (domestically, regionally, or internationally), including improvements to market systems, trade facilitation, and value chain development
The program focuses on sustainable, market-driven approaches, private sector engagement, and measurable outcomes. Projects should align with both U.S. agricultural interests and the host country's national strategies, and must include a clear exit strategy to ensure sustainability after program completion.
