The U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing up to $2.8 billion in 70 selected projects under the first wave of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity, with more projects to be announced later this year.

More than 450 proposals were submitted for the funding opportunity and the strength of the projects identified led USDA to increase its investment from the initial $1 billion to more than $3 billion. “Through today’s announcement of initial selections for the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities, USDA is delivering on our promise to build and expand these market opportunities for American agriculture and be global leaders in climate-smart agricultural production. This effort will increase the competitive advantage of U.S. agriculture both domestically and internationally, build wealth that stays in rural communities and support a diverse range of producers and operation types,” said Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack.

Sec. Vilsack discussed the announcement with reporters Tuesday afternoon and made the official announcement this morning.
Vilsack Climate Smart Partnership press call 32:26

Vilsack Climate Smart Partnership announcement 12:50