Coordinating Agricultural Development Innovation (CADI) Uzbekistan: U.S. Soy Marketing Promotion

The United States Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, through its Agricultural Economic Development division, has issued a funding opportunity titled Coordinating Agricultural Development & Innovation Uzbekistan: U.S. Soy Marketing Promotion. This opportunity is part of the Technical Agricultural Assistance Program and is designed to strengthen international agricultural trade relationships by promoting U.S. soy exports. The program specifically targets Uzbekistan, a country with growing demand for high-protein feed inputs due to expansion in poultry, dairy, and aquaculture sectors. By supporting training initiatives for Uzbek private sector professionals, the program aims to increase awareness of U.S. soy quality, safety, and market potential. The primary purpose of the grant is to fund a U.S.-based institution to design and deliver a short-term training program for eight mid- to senior-level professionals from Uzbekistan’s private sector. These participants will include representatives from the Fat & Oil Association and other soy importing and processing firms. The training is expected to last one to two consecutive weeks and will take place within the United States at locations proposed by the applicant institution. The training must cover technical, regulatory, and commercial aspects of U.S. soy production, including food safety laws, soybean processing, feed applications, and trade systems. The broader objective is to build long-term trade relationships and enhance Uzbekistan’s capacity to import and utilize U.S. soy. Funding for this opportunity totals $115,000, with the expectation of issuing a single award through a cost-reimbursable agreement. While cost sharing is not required, it is encouraged. Funds must be used strictly for allowable program-related expenses and cannot support prohibited activities such as lobbying, legal action against government entities, or matching other federal awards. Indirect costs are capped at 10 percent of direct costs, and compensation limits apply to personnel. The host institution is responsible for logistical arrangements including domestic travel, lodging, and program delivery, while USDA/FAS handles participant recruitment, visa support, and international travel arrangements. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to U.S. state cooperative institutions and other colleges and universities as defined by federal statute. Applicants must be registered in the System for Award Management and maintain an active status throughout the application and award process. Only one application per institution is allowed, and submissions must comply fully with the application requirements outlined in the notice. Applications must include standard federal forms, a detailed budget and narrative, and a comprehensive project plan outlining training content, logistics, institutional capabilities, and evaluation strategies. Applications must be submitted electronically through the ezFedGrants system. The deadline for submitting questions is May 6, 2026, and the final application deadline is May 14, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Late submissions will not be accepted. Applicants are advised to begin registration and submission processes early due to potential system requirements and delays. USDA/FAS strongly encourages early communication with program contacts for technical assistance related to submission systems. Applications will undergo a multi-step review process beginning with an eligibility screening followed by a merit-based evaluation. Review criteria include technical expertise, experience in international training, quality of the proposed training plan, budget justification, and overall application quality. Awards are expected to be announced following panel review and selection by an authorized official. The performance period includes program implementation, reporting, and follow-up activities, including evaluation of participant outcomes and submission of final reports within 120 days after program completion. The program is a one-time funding opportunity with no stated recurring cycle. However, USDA/FAS reserves the right to issue additional awards within six months if additional funding becomes available. Applicants should direct all inquiries to the listed program contact, Benjamin Kairn, via email or phone during standard business hours.

Focus on detailed training plan aligned with Uzbek market needs; demonstrate international training experience; ensure budget clarity and compliance with federal cost rules