The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it has awarded over $26.8 million to grant projects through the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP). The program helps local and regional food entities develop, coordinate, and expand producer-to-consumer marketing, local and regional food markets, and local food enterprises. LAMP includes the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP), Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP), and the Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP).
“Part of our efforts to put Farmers First is to boost demand for locally grown food and connect our farmers to these growing regional markets. The Local Agriculture Market Program is an important part of USDA’s work to grow strong local and regional food systems,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “This funding is putting Farmers First by helping them connect with new markets, strengthening their businesses, and boosting economic resilience in rural communities. At the same time, it gives families better access to fresh, locally grown food, making it easier for everyone to enjoy healthy meals while supporting the farmers who grow them.”
FMPP is awarding almost $11.1 million to 43 projects FMPP FY2025 Description of Funded Projects across 28 states and territories. The program funds projects that support producer-to-consumer markets such as farmers markets, roadside stands, agritourism activities, community-supported agriculture programs, and online sales.
LFPP is awarding almost $11.1 million to 37 projects LFPP FY2025 Description of Funded Projects across 24 states and territories. The program supports local and regional food businesses that engage as intermediaries in indirect producer-to-consumer marketing. The awarded projects focus on activities such as supporting the processing, aggregation, distribution, and storage of local and regional food products; developing value-added products; and facilitating regional food chain coordination.
Source : usda.gov