Empowering Agricultural Growth: A Look into the USDA’s Market Access Program (MAP)

Since 2018, our agency has been awarded the opportunity to participate in the Market Access Program (MAP), a vital initiative led by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This program, among many others offered by the USDA, plays a pivotal role in supporting U.S. producers, exporters, and trade organizations in promoting their agricultural products on the global stage. Let’s delve into the key features that make MAP a game-changer for those seeking to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. agricultural commodities worldwide.

Promoting Agricultural Products:
At the heart of the MAP program lies its commitment to promoting U.S. agricultural products internationally. Through targeted funding, MAP facilitates various promotional activities, including advertising, trade shows, market research, and other initiatives. These efforts are strategically designed to create, expand, and sustain foreign markets for American agricultural products, opening doors to new opportunities on a global scale.

Eligibility and Collaboration:
MAP extends its support to a diverse range of participants, fostering collaboration among U.S. agricultural trade associations, cooperatives, state regional trade groups, and small-sized entities. Eligible participants are encouraged to propose activities that actively contribute to the marketing and promotion of U.S. agricultural products in foreign markets. This inclusive approach ensures that a broad spectrum of stakeholders can benefit from the program’s resources and expertise.

Cost-Share Basis:
Operated on a cost-share basis, the MAP program demonstrates a commitment to shared responsibility. The USDA provides a percentage of the funding for approved projects, while participants are required to contribute a matching amount. This collaborative financing model not only maximizes the impact of the program but also encourages participants to invest in the success of their promotional initiatives.

Focus on Emerging Markets:
Recognizing the potential for growth, MAP places a strategic emphasis on emerging markets. These markets offer unique opportunities for increased U.S. agricultural exports, aligning with the program’s overarching goal of expanding the global footprint of American agricultural products. By targeting these emerging markets, MAP contributes to the long-term sustainability and profitability of the U.S. agricultural sector.

Stay Informed:
It’s important to note that program details and features may undergo changes over time. To stay updated on the latest developments and opportunities within the Market Access Program and other USDA agricultural initiatives, it is advisable to regularly check the USDA’s official website or directly contact the USDA for the most accurate and current information. Additionally, be aware that new programs may have been introduced since the last comprehensive update in January 2022.

We recognize the transformative potential it holds for U.S. agricultural products on the global stage. By leveraging the program’s key features, such as targeted promotion, collaborative partnerships, cost-sharing, and a focus on emerging markets, we aim to contribute to the growth and success of the American agricultural sector in the international arena.