•USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will award new competitive grants, authorized by the Farmers’ Market Promotion Program (FMPP), to help expand opportunities for direct producer-to-consumer marketing. The FFPP was included in the 2002 Farm Bill, but this is the first year for which Congress has appropriated funding — $1 million.
The grants are targeted to help improve and expand domestic farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, and other direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities.
Entities eligible to apply include: nonprofit corporations, agricultural cooperatives, local governments, public benefit corporations, economic development corporations, regional farmers market authorities and tribal governments. Individuals are NOT eligible to apply.
Approximately $1 million is allocated for fiscal year 2006, with no single proposal allowed to receive more than $75,000.
By May 1, close of business, AMS must receive applications and proposals.
For more information, visit www.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets/FMPP/FMPPInfo.htm

•USDA also recently announced the publication of the Farmers Market Resource Guide, a list of grants, programs and other financial and information resources available from public and private organizations.
Developed by the newly formed Farmers Market Consortium (FMC), the Guide contains information about each participating agency or foundation and gives details about more than 100 projects and grants available to help start or improve farmers markets.
The Farmers Market Resource Guide is available at www.ams.usda.gov/ or a printed copy can be obtained by contacting AMS, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 2646, South Bldg., Washington, DC 20250; phone 202-720-8317.