The "2025 Quality Samples Program" (USDA-FAS-QSP-2025), managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service, aims to promote U.S. agricultural exports by providing funding for projects that supply commodity samples to potential foreign importers. The goal is to help foreign buyers appreciate the quality of U.S. agricultural products, thereby enhancing market opportunities and expanding export sales.
The program has a total estimated funding of $2.5 million, with no cost-sharing requirement. There is flexibility in funding allocation, as awards can be up to $2.5 million, allowing applicants to request the amount needed for their projects. The program operates on multiple application deadlines: June 14, 2024, December 31, 2024, March 31, 2025, and a final deadline of June 30, 2025. No applications will be accepted after the final deadline.
Eligibility is open to U.S. entities such as trade organizations, agricultural cooperatives, state and regional groups, and private businesses. Further details on eligibility are specified in Section C of the funding opportunity announcement.
Applicants should propose projects that effectively utilize commodity samples to demonstrate the quality of U.S. products, aiming to build foreign importers' interest and foster trade relationships. Projects will be evaluated on their potential to expand market access and generate export opportunities for U.S. agriculture.
