Increasing Market Opportunities in Vietnam for U.S. Innovative Biofertilizer Exporters

Fertilize Right Vietnam (FR Vietnam) is a program implemented by USDA/FAS since 2023. USDA’s official partner is the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) and an implementing partner from an international agricultural research organization. The objectives of FR Vietnam are to (1) increase fertilizer-use efficiency, (2) enhance fertilizer effectiveness, and (3) develop alternatives to traditional manufactured chemical fertilizers. Attaining these objectives enable farmers to reduce input costs while maintaining or increasing yield, leading to the development of a viable and sustainable agricultural system, thereby achieving the purposes of 7 U.S.C. § 3291(a)(3). FR Vietnam activities are based on the 4Rs of nutrient management, a concept endorsed by USDA and the U.S. fertilizer industry. The 4Rs entail the use of the Right Source or type of fertilizer, applied at the Right Rate, at the Right Time and in the Right Place. USDA/FAS is requesting the design and delivery of a two-year program to address the general objectives of the FR Vietnam program, with the specific objectives outlined below. Specific Objectives: 1) Conduct comparative analysis in the U.S. and Vietnam, of reducing nitrogen leaching while maintaining or increasing yield, using U.S. manufactured biofertilizers such as liquid fish fertilizer; 2) Collaborate with implementing partner in Vietnam and provide input to the national guidelines for fertilizer management focused on innovative alternatives to synthetic fertilizers such as enhanced efficiency fertilizers using microbial coatings, and biofertilizers; 3) Informational outreach tour to Vietnam by U.S. organic rice farmers who used U.S. manufactured biofertilizers to reduce nitrogen leaching and maintain or increase yield; and 4) Evaluate the increase in Vietnam imports of at least three (3) U.S-. manufactured fertilizer enhancement products and biofertilizers, by companies participating in the FR Vietnam program.

Award Ceiling

$250,000

Estimated Total Program Funding

$500,000

Expected Number of Awards

2

This opportunity from Foreign Agricultural Service is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Agriculture are especially encouraged to review the requirements.

Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:

• Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
• Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
• State, local, and tribal governments
• Colleges, universities, and research institutions
• Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)

Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.