(Stevens Point, Wis., Aug. 3, 2026) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development is accepting applications now through August 17, 2026, for the Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long-term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program.

The FIELDS program is designed to increase domestic fertilizer production and strengthen long-term supply for farmers producing agricultural commodities. Through the Commodity Credit Corporation, USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service will administer up to $500 million in investments through the FIELDS program.

Funding will support projects that expand domestic fertilizer production capacity, promote market competition, enhance supply chain resilience, and increase the availability of fertilizer critical to U.S. agricultural productivity.

“The FIELDS program is a step forward in increasing domestic fertilizer production,” said USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson. “By expanding domestic fertilizer production, we’re helping farmers attain greater stability, reducing reliance on foreign sources, and supporting long‑term productivity across rural Wisconsin communities.”

Projects funded through FIELDS may include expansions or upgrades of existing fertilizer production facilities, construction of new domestic plants, shovel ready projects capable of rapidly increasing supply, and on-site fertilizer terminals or transportation infrastructure to improve supply chain efficiency.

Projects must demonstrate manufacturing approaches that are:

  • Independent from dominant fertilizer suppliers;
  • Made in America;
  • Innovative;
  • Energy dominant and secure; and
  • Farmer-focused.

Priority consideration will be given to projects that are in advanced stages of development, technically feasible, financially viable, and supported by other confirmed funding sources.

Competitive cost-share awards ranging from $15 million to $150 million are available. Matching funds are required.

Electronic applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on August 17, 2026. Additional details on eligibility and program requirements are available on Grants.gov or by visiting the FIELDS webpage. 

For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making investment data accessible to the public.

Learn more online at www.rd.usda.gov/wi, subscribe to GovDelivery updates, and follow us on X at @RD_Wisconsin.