What is the FSMIP?

The purpose of the FSMIP is “to explore new market opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural products, and encourage research and innovation aimed at improving the efficiency and performance of the U.S. agricultural marketing system.” The program specifically helps to fund applied research projects across four project categories:

  • Agricultural Product Distribution
  • Cooperative Development
  • Economic Research to Clarify Marketing Barriers and Opportunities
  • Agricultural Product Development

The project must have a strong marketing focus and must involve research. The primary beneficiaries should include agricultural producers and agribusinesses. Proposals may involve small, medium or large scale agricultural entities but must benefit multiple producers or agribusinesses. Proposals that benefit one business or individual will not be considered. Projects are not eligible if they include construction or purchase of land for a non-federal entity; benefit only one agricultural producer, entity, or individual; depend upon the completion of another project or receipt of a different grant; or duplicate activities that have been funded under another federal award.

How much funding has been available?
FY 2021 In 2021, the FSMIP was announced and open for applications on March 23, 2021 with a submission deadline of May 24th.  The program awarded an amount of $1,093,631.00 to 5 recipients. A complete list with summaries of all funded projects can be found here.

FY 2018 In 2018, the FSMIP was announced and open for applications on March 7, 2018 with a submission deadline of May 7.  The program awarded an amount of $1,109,000 to 9 recipients. A complete list with summaries of all funded projects can be found here.

FY 2017 The program funded 6 projects in 2017 for total project funding of $938,863.74. A complete list with summaries of all funded projects can be found here.

FY 2016 The FSMIP awarded $982,437 in grant funds to 12 projects in 2016. Click here for a full list and summary of the funded projects from FY 2016.

How can funds be used?

There are a number of allowable and unallowable costs and activities that apply to the funds provided by the FSMIP.  For a complete and detailed list of these costs, please click here.

Who can apply? 
Eligible applicants are state agencies, including but not limited to a State department of agriculture or a State agricultural experiment station. Partners and collaborators can include private and public bodies, for-profit and nonprofit entities, including but not limited to new and beginning farmers and ranchers, rural enterprises, local government entities, and agribusinesses.

How are applications scored?

Each application will be reviewed competitively using the following criteria and scoring.

Point Category

Maximum Points
Alignment and Intent

25 pts.
Technical Merit

25 pts.
Achievability

15 pts.
Expertise and Partners

25 pts.
Fiscal Plan and Resources

10 pts.
Total

100 pts.

For more information, visit the USDA’s website.