All Americans benefit from investments that provide consistent access to safe, healthy, affordable food. As we build back better, we must create new and better markets for all producers, consumers, and food and agricultural products.
Creating new economic opportunities in the growing market for local and regional foods is a priority of the USDA. NIFA invests in projects focused on expanding opportunities for new and beginning producers across the nation. Additionally, the agency supports projects that propel the commercialization of technology innovation resulting from research investments.
These market opportunities are supported through investments in infrastructure to connect producers with new markets; small business innovation research; initiatives such as the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program to improve access to healthy local food; and tools that support local food systems.
The food system of the future needs to be fair, competitive, distributed and resilient. USDA is working to transform our nation’s food system to create more options for producers and consumers and improve the strength of our food supply chain. The success of American agriculture hinges on research, innovation and the development of new markets, both at home and abroad.
NIFA supports research, education and Extension efforts throughout the nation that are leading to the creation of more and better market opportunities for farmers and producers, addressing issues such as processing and distribution capacity; open and competitive markets; local and regional food systems; organic and emerging opportunities; markets abroad; and safeguarding animal and plant health and food safety.
PROGRAMS
Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Programs (SBIR/STTR)
Regional Rural Development Centers
Extension Risk Management Education Program
AFRI Agriculture Economics and Rural Communities Program Area
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Specialty Crop Research Initiative
Community Projects Competitive Grants Program
Farm Business Management and Benchmarking (FBMB) Competitive Grants Program