By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a new funding opportunity worth approximately $2.4 million for projects that support and expand the American sheep industry.
Through the Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program (SPMGP), USDA will fund initiatives that improve production, strengthen marketing efforts, and help address long-term industry challenges. The program also supports rural economic development by encouraging projects that increase industry capacity and create new opportunities for sheep producers.
Funding will be awarded competitively to national organizations with experience managing grant programs. Selected recipients will oversee the distribution of subawards and provide guidance and expertise to ensure projects meet program goals.
Eligible activities include market development, production improvements, technical training, product innovation, animal health programs, risk management efforts, and infrastructure and supply chain enhancements. These activities are intended to deliver measurable benefits to sheep producers and the broader industry.
A key requirement of the program is that at least 80% of awarded funds must be distributed through subawards that directly benefit sheep producers and related industry projects.
The funding is made available through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act and represents part of USDA’s effort to support agricultural growth and rural communities.
Organizations interested in participating can review the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Agricultural Marketing Service and submit applications through AMS SPMGP webpage. The application deadline is Oct. 2, 2026.
USDA clarified that the current funding opportunity is intended for organizations that can administer subaward programs rather than individual producers seeking project funding. Additional opportunities for project funding are expected to be announced later by selected program recipients.
Photo Credit: istock-heebyj
Categories: National