NASDA Rolls Out America First Trade Promotion Program Initiatives

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Through its America First Trade Promotion Program award, NASDA is investing in a focused set of initiatives to strengthen exporter readiness, reduce barriers to engagement and support long-term market development for U.S. agriculture.

Planned activities include two research efforts aimed at informing future trade strategy: a biotech regulatory data aggregation case study and a GSM-102 program case study.

Additionally, NASDA will expand its Farm2Food Accelerator program by integrating export-focused instructional tracks that better prepare U.S. producers to enter foreign markets and participate more effectively in export-oriented international trade shows.

To help reduce financial barriers to engagement, AFTPP funding will also support NASDA member participation in Tri-National Agricultural Accord activities over the next three years, from 2026 through 2028. At this time, that support will be focused on airfare assistance for eligible travel, helping expand access for members who may otherwise be unable to participate.

In response to direct member feedback, the program creates new opportunities for state-led inbound technical delegations, reflecting growing demand for increased inbound trade mission engagement. These delegations are structured to build sustained market access through relationship-driven engagement rather than one-off transactions, while advancing long-term strategies to address regulatory and non-tariff barriers in priority markets. State-led inbounds will also create opportunities for direct engagement with international government officials and technical stakeholders, including universities, regulatory agencies and NASDA partners, while positioning participating states to pursue near-term export growth and lay the groundwork for multi-year trade expansion in coordination with State Regional Trade Groups.

By empowering states to lead program design and execution, with NASDA providing technical, administrative and compliance support, this model creates a more flexible and responsive pathway for states to pursue strategic export growth while advancing U.S. agricultural competitiveness.

NASDA members interested in leading a state-led inbound technical delegation aligned with their export priorities are encouraged to apply online today. For questions regarding NASDA’s AFTPP funding or activities, please contact Laila Aoussar.