The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced exciting funding opportunities through the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) and the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). These programs offer critical support for local food systems, farmers, and specialty crop producers looking to grow their businesses, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen regional markets. If you’re part of a local food enterprise, a state agricultural agency, or a specialty crop organization, these grants could be your chance to make a lasting impact. Here’s what you need to know to take advantage of these opportunities.

Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP): Building Stronger Local Food Systems

What is LAMP?
The Local Agriculture Market Program is designed to support local and regional food entities in developing, coordinating, and expanding producer-to-consumer marketing, local and regional food markets, and local food enterprises. By fostering stronger connections between producers and consumers, LAMP helps create vibrant, sustainable food systems that benefit communities and economies.

LAMP Grant Programs
 LAMP includes three distinct grant programs each tailored to specific needs within the local food sector:

  • Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP): Supports farmers markets, roadside stands, and other direct-to-consumer marketing efforts to increase access to fresh, local products.
  • Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP): Funds projects that expand local food supply chains, such as food hubs, farm-to-institution programs, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) initiatives.
  • Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP): Encourages partnerships to build and strengthen regional food economies through collaboration, planning, and infrastructure development.

Who Can Apply?
 Eligible applicants include:

  • Local and regional food businesses
  • Farmers markets and producers
  • Nonprofits, tribal organizations, and public benefit corporations
  • Local governments and economic development organizations

Check the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) website for specific eligibility details for each program.

Application Deadline: Applications for all LAMP grant programs are due by June 27, 2025.

Why Apply?
 LAMP grants provide funding to:

  • Expand market opportunities for farmers and food businesses
  • Strengthen local supply chains and distribution networks
  • Promote community access to fresh, healthy foods
  • Support innovative marketing and partnership strategies

Whether you’re running a farmers’ market, developing a food hub, or building regional partnerships, LAMP can help turn your vision into reality.

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP): Boosting Specialty Crop Competitiveness

What is SCBGP?
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funds innovative projects to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops—fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Through investments in marketing, education, and research, SCBGP helps specialty crop producers thrive in a competitive global market.

Application Deadline: Applications are due by July 7, 2025.

What Types of Projects Are Funded?
 SCBGP supports projects that:

  • Increase consumer awareness and demand for specialty crops
  • Improve production practices and sustainability
  • Enhance food safety and quality standards
  • Conduct research to address industry challenges
  • Expand access to specialty crops in underserved communities

Past projects have included marketing campaigns, training programs for growers, and research into pest management or new crop varieties.

Why Apply?
 SCBGP grants empower state agencies and their partners to:

  • Strengthen the specialty crop industry’s economic impact
  • Support farmers in adopting innovative practices
  • Promote healthy eating through increased access to specialty crops
  • Address regional and national challenges in the specialty crop sector

How to Apply

Both LAMP and SCBGP applications are managed through the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). To apply:

  • Review Program Guidelines: Visit the AMS website for detailed eligibility criteria, funding priorities, and application instructions for LAMP and SCBGP.
  • Prepare Your Proposal: Develop a clear project plan that aligns with program goals, including a budget and measurable outcomes.
  • Submit by the Deadline: Ensure your application is complete and submitted through the appropriate channels by June 27, 2025, for LAMP or July 7, 2025, for SCBGP.

Why These Programs Matter

The LAMP and SCBGP programs are more than just funding opportunities—they’re investments in the future of agriculture. By supporting local food systems and specialty crop industries, these grants help:

  • Create jobs and economic opportunities in rural and urban communities
  • Promote sustainable farming practices
  • Increase access to fresh, nutritious foods
  • Build resilient food systems that can adapt to changing markets and climates

If you’re passionate about local food, sustainable agriculture, or specialty crops, these programs offer a unique chance to make a difference.

Take the Next Step

Don’t miss out on these transformative opportunities! Whether you’re a local food entrepreneur, a farmers market manager, or a state agricultural agency, the USDA’s LAMP and SCBGP programs can provide the resources you need to grow your impact. Visit the AMS website today to learn more and start preparing your application.

Deadlines:

  • LAMP: June 27, 2025
  • SCBGP: July 7, 2025