USDA opens $226 million Food for Progress funding round for seven countries

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has opened applications for up to USD 226 million in fiscal 2026 funding under its Food for Progress program, targeting agricultural development projects in seven priority countries through the monetization of donated U.S. commodities.

According to a May 22 notice from the agency’s Foreign Agricultural Service, USDA expects to award seven cooperative agreements valued between USD 28 million and USD 35 million each, with project durations of approximately four to five years. The eligible countries are Bangladesh, Bolivia, Ecuador, Morocco, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Under the Food for Progress mechanism, the U.S. government donates commodities such as wheat, rice, soybean meal and pulses to recipient countries. The commodities are then sold on local markets, with proceeds used to finance agricultural productivity and trade-related projects. USDA said eligible activities include improving farmers’ access to production inputs such as seed, fertilizer and crop protection products, while also supporting market access, technology adoption and value-chain development.

The agency said the latest funding round aligns with “America First” policy priorities by emphasizing measurable benefits for U.S. farmers and tighter oversight of federal spending. USDA added that each project must recover at least 70% of the federal costs associated with procuring and shipping the donated commodities.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. EDT on July 6, with funding selections expected by August 24 and awards anticipated by late September. Questions related to the solicitation may be submitted through June 19.

Sources: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service; Grants.gov