The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced funding for the Local Agriculture Market Program to expand local producers' ability to sell to institutions such as universities, hospitals and other establishments operated by local governments, in a March 1 news release.
The allotted funds for 2022 come to $97 million in competitive grants. American Rescue Plan Act funding will supply $65 million, and the remaining $32 million is provided through the 2018 Farm Bill. Additional ARP funding in the amount of $65 million is earmarked for the 2023 fiscal year.
“Through these grant programs we are able to maximize opportunities for economic growth and ingenuity in the local and regional food system. These grants have generated new income sources for small, beginning and historically underserved farmers; increased local food access across rural and urban communities; and provided platforms for value-added and niche products to shine,” said USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This year, we are excited to further develop market opportunities for producers by focusing on farm to institution. Expanded access to and local food purchasing within institutional markets could be a major boon for small and mid-sized producers located throughout the country.”
LAMP's Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program will receive $57 million of the $97 million, while the Regional Food System Partnerships will receive the remaining $40 million.
