USDA Opens Trade Program Applications for Farmers

Jun 11, 2026
By Farms.com

Applications open for FY27 export programs to expand global markets

The United States Department of Agriculture has opened applications for its Fiscal Year 2027 trade promotion programs. These programs aim to support farmers, ranchers, and producers by helping them enter global markets and increase exports. Applications are open until August 14, 2026.

“At USDA, Farmers First means giving our hardworking farmers, ranchers, and producers the tools they need to feed the world,” said Brooke Rollins, the United States Secretary of Agriculture. “USDA is using every tool it has to cut through the heavy red tape in overseas markets, leveling the playing field so that American producers can reach new buyers and bring dollars back to their farms, fields, and rural communities.”

These programs operate as public-private partnerships. They allow the USDA to work closely with agricultural groups to reduce trade barriers and create opportunities for American products in international markets. Officials say the goal is to help farmers find new buyers and grow their businesses worldwide.

According to the USDA, these initiatives have delivered strong economic benefits over the years. Since 1977, every dollar invested has returned about $24.50 in export value. The programs also support more than 225,000 jobs and add billions to the national economy each year.

Several programs are included in this funding cycle. The Market Access Program helps exporters promote agricultural, fish, and forest products. The Foreign Market Development Program builds long-term global demand for U.S. commodities. The Emerging Markets Program supports technical assistance to expand export opportunities in developing markets.

Other programs include Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops, which focuses on reducing export barriers, and the Quality Samples Program, which allows organizations to provide product samples to international buyers. These initiatives help increase awareness and demand for U.S. products.

The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service will review applications in the coming months. Final selections are expected later this year, with approved projects starting in FY27.

For more information about USDA’s trade promotion programs, visit: https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs.

Photo Credit: usda

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