2027 Quality Samples Program

The 2027 Quality Samples Program, solicited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service under solicitation number USDA-FAS-QSP-2027, aims to enhance global demand for U.S. agricultural commodities by enabling domestic entities to provide samples to foreign importers to showcase product quality. This program operates as a reimbursement-based grant initiative where applicants may seek funding exclusively for the purchase of samples and domestic-to-first-foreign-port transportation costs, with no reimbursement allowed for indirect costs, post-import transportation, or technical assistance expenses. Projects are capped at $75,000 for processing or transformation activities and $15,000 for technical seminars, and all applicants—except federal entities—must contribute at least 10% of the requested amount through cash, goods, or services from U.S. industry or foreign partners. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Unified Export Strategy (UES) system by the initial deadline of August 14, 2026, with additional submission tranches available through June 30, 2027. All applicants are required to maintain an active registration in SAM.gov with a valid Unique Entity Identifier, and must include comprehensive trade data spanning 2022 to 2033, detailed project plans outlining sample specifications, end-use performance trials, and technical assistance components. Proposals are scored out of 100 points across ten weighted factors including market competitiveness, commercial sales potential, sample size, staff experience, importer contributions, and financial resources, with a mandatory minimum score of 70 to be considered for funding. Award decisions follow a ranked order based on scores, subject to final adjustments by FAS leadership based on agency priorities, past performance, and overseas input. Recipients must submit detailed financial and performance reports via UES within 90 days of agreement completion to trigger closeout, and are subject to ongoing monitoring, site visits, and compliance with 2 CFR Parts 200 and 400, including mandatory disclosures, debarment provisions, subaward reporting under 2 CFR 170, and conflict of interest obligations. Failure to adhere to statutory requirements, provide accurate reporting, or maintain SAM registration may result in suspension, debarment, or recovery of funds. The program emphasizes transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes to ensure U.S. agricultural exports gain sustainable international traction.