New FIELDS initiative invests in domestic fertilizer production and supply
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched the Fertilizer Investment and Expansion for Long-Term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program, a new initiative aimed at increasing fertilizer production across the United States.
The program provides $500 million in funding to support the construction and expansion of fertilizer manufacturing facilities. Administered by USDA Rural Development, the initiative focuses on strengthening domestic production capacity and improving long-term fertilizer availability for farmers.
"For decades, American farmers were forced to rely on unstable foreign suppliers for one of the most important inputs needed to feed our nation. Today we are announcing a plan to end this consolidation and bring competition back to the American fertilizer industry," said Secretary Brooke L. Rollins.
She added, "Under President Trump's leadership, USDA is rebuilding America's fertilizer manufacturing base, strengthening supply chains, and ensuring our producers have reliable and affordable access to the fertilizer they need to remain competitive. The Trump Administration’s FIELDS program is solely focused on producing fertilizer and creating American jobs."
FIELDS will support projects that produce key fertilizer ingredients such as nitrogen, phosphate, potash, sulfur, and other essential nutrients used in crop production. USDA stated that priority will be given to projects that are construction-ready, financially sound, and capable of delivering measurable increases in production.
Officials developed the program after reviewing more than 120 fertilizer-related projects and identifying common challenges involving financing and construction. The lessons learned helped shape a program focused on practical projects with clear outcomes.
The initiative also supports broader efforts to strengthen the fertilizer market, improve competition, and enhance supply chain resilience. USDA says these actions are designed to help farmers manage input costs while ensuring adequate fertilizer supplies in the future.
Individual awards will range from $15 million to $150 million. Eligible organizations can submit applications electronically through Grants.gov. The application deadline is August 15, 2026.
USDA believes the investment will help strengthen U.S. agriculture, support rural economies, create jobs, and build a more secure fertilizer supply chain that benefits farmers for years to come.
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