California Table Grapes Get $2.2M Federal Marketing Boost
Last week, the Fresno-based California Table Grape Commission secured $2.2 million in federal funding to expand its international marketing efforts, part of a broader push by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to strengthen export opportunities for American agriculture.
In a press release, commission president Ian LeMay said the award “represents a meaningful investment in the continued success of the California table grape industry and the communities the industry supports.”
The funding comes through the America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP), which is administered by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. The program is designed to help U.S. producers grow demand in global markets by supporting promotional campaigns and trade development initiatives.
For California’s table grape industry, the investment is expected to bolster demand in key international markets at a time when competition from other producing regions remains strong. Funding will support retail and consumer promotion initiatives in Australia, Mexico, Canada, and the United Kingdom, at the same time supporting growers, shippers, and rural communities in the San Joaquin Valley.
Federal officials framed the funding as part of a larger strategy to expand market access for U.S. agriculture. “USDA’s market development programs have a proven record of delivering for our farmers, ranchers and producers,” said Luke J. Lindberg, Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, in announcing the awards. He emphasized that partnerships with industry groups help open new trade channels and reinforce the global competitiveness of U.S. agricultural products.
The AFTPP awards also serve as a bridge to a significant funding increase expected under the Working Families Tax Cuts measure. Beginning in fiscal year 2027, USDA will receive an additional $285 million annually to expand its core export promotion efforts, including the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program.
In total, USDA is distributing AFTPP funding to 55 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives, reflecting a coordinated effort to maintain and expand U.S. agricultural market share globally. Several of those organizations are in California, with awards going as well to the Almond Board of California ($4M), the California Prune Board ($3M), and the California Walnut Commission ($2.6M), among others.
The America First Trade Promotion Program is intended not only to open new markets but also to reinforce existing trade relationships, ensuring continuity for exporters navigating an increasingly competitive international landscape.
For California’s table grape sector, the funding underscores the importance of federal support in sustaining export-market development and positioning the industry to capitalize on rising global demand.
“These resources will allow us to expand strategic promotions in key partner countries and ensure consumers around the world continue to choose grapes from California,” LeMay said.
For more updates on Fresno County development and business initiatives, stay connected with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce.
Photo by Wayne Christensen on Unsplash
