FMPP funds projects that develop, coordinate, and expand direct producer-to-consumer markets to help increase access to and availability of locally and regionally produced agricultural products.
The program focuses on:• Supporting and promoting domestic direct producer-to-consumer (including
credit:
direct producer-to- retail, direct producer-to-restaurant and direct producer-to-institutional marketing) marketing such as farmers markets, roadside stands, agritourism activities, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, or online sales;• Encouraging the development of value-added agricultural products;• Developing marketing strategies for producers of local food and value-added products;• Facilitating regional food chain coordination and mid-tier value chain development;• Promoting new business opportunities and marketing strategies to reduce on-farm food waste; • Responding to changing technology needs in direct producer-to-consumer marketing; and• Covering expenses related to costs incurred in obtaining food safety certification andimprovements to food safety practices and equipment.Projects that aim to address COVID-19 impacts through these activities are welcome.