Opportunity Awaits: Food Export’s 2026 Branded Program Now Open - Food Export Association of the Midwest USA and Food Export USA

Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast are pleased to announce that the 2026 Branded Program application portal officially opened on Aug. 1, 2025. This vital program provides small- and medium-sized food and agricultural suppliers in 23 member states with resources, funding, and support to expand their brand globally.

The Branded Program offers 50% cost reimbursement for a wide range of international marketing activities, helping offset the risks of exporting while accelerating global reach.

“The Branded Program is more than funding—it’s a gateway to opportunity,” said Teresa Miller, Chief Program and Partnership Officer. “It empowers suppliers to expand into new markets, strengthen their global presence, and invest in the future of their brands with the support of Food Export behind them.”

What’s New for 2026?

Updated Branded Program Manual: Now available at foodexport.org, the manual outlines the latest guidance, eligible activities, and documentation tips.
Global Market Expansion Support: New messaging and examples help participants—especially importers—understand how to use Branded funds in strategic growth markets like India, Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia.
Enhanced Program Communication: Expect clear deadlines and reminders throughout the year to ensure faster reimbursements and smoother participation.
New Market Priorities: Participants with international focus—particularly in new or diversified markets—will be prioritized for funding consideration.

Eligible Activities Include:

Reimbursement for marketing efforts by a supplier’s importer
International Digital Advertising
International website development
Foreign market-compliant packaging and labeling
Advertising and public relations campaigns
In-store promotions and product demonstrations
Trade show fees (domestic and overseas)
Point-of-sale and marketing materials

Take the First Step—Prequalify Now

All suppliers must complete a Prequalification Application to begin. It’s fast, easy, and essential to unlock 2026 opportunities. Start here at: foodexport.org/programs/market-promotion/branded-program

“If you’re looking to grow internationally, don’t leave funding on the table,” Miller added. “Start with the prequalification form. The earlier you apply, the sooner we can support your goals.”

For questions or assistance, contact our Branded Program teams: Midwest Region: mw_claims@foodexport.org or Northeast Region: ne_claims@foodexport.org.ort is committed to continuous improvement and providing suppliers with value that exceeds the price. Visit foodexport.org to learn more.

Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. (Not all bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations or alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact us. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online https://www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer.

Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast reserve the right to deny services to any firm or individual which, in the sole opinion of Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast, does not comply with FAS, MAP or Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast regulations or policies, or otherwise offer the best opportunity to achieve its mission of increasing food and agricultural exports. Submission of any false or misleading information may be grounds for rejection or subsequent revocation of any application or participation. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast are equal opportunity employers and providers.