2026 Quality Samples Program
ID: 360063Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS)

Award Range

$15K - $75K

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Agriculture

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/360063
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS) is offering funding through the 2026 Quality Samples Program (QSP) to support U.S. entities in exporting agricultural commodities. The program aims to enhance the development and expansion of export markets by providing commodity samples to foreign importers, thereby promoting the high quality of U.S. agricultural products. Eligible applicants include private entities and government organizations committed to exporting, with a focus on projects that benefit the U.S. commodity industry as a whole rather than individual companies. The total funding available for FY 2026 is $2.5 million, with individual awards ranging from $15,000 to $75,000, and a mandatory 10% cost-sharing requirement for applicants, excluding federal entities. Interested parties should note that applications will be accepted in multiple tranches throughout 2025 and 2026, and they can contact Curt Alt at curt.alt@usda.gov or (202) 690-4784 for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    curt.alt@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    2026.pdf
    The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS) has announced funding opportunities through the Quality Samples Program (QSP), aimed at supporting U.S. entities in exporting agricultural commodities. The program provides up to $2.5 million in FY 2026, with a focus on delivering commodity samples to foreign importers to enhance awareness and appreciation of U.S. agricultural quality. Eligible applicants include private entities and government organizations that demonstrate a commitment to exporting. The program emphasizes market development for U.S. agricultural products, allowing funding for samples of commodities produced in the U.S., excluding tobacco. Each project must offer substantial benefits to the U.S. commodity industry rather than individual companies, focusing on new market creation or product promotion. Applications will be accepted in multiple tranches throughout 2025 and 2026, with strict eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. Projects may receive reimbursement for transportation costs and sample purchase prices, but not for indirect costs or certain fees. A 10% cost-sharing from applicants, except federal entities, is mandatory. The USDA/FAS will review applications based on eligibility and criteria aimed at maximizing project efficacy and industry benefits, ensuring that funding is directed towards promising export initiatives.
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