Infrastructure Support

Infrastructure is the backbone of the seafood industry. Fishing operations rely on an interconnected system that extends beyond vessels to include engines, gear, electronics, fuel systems, refrigeration, transportation, and essential shoreside infrastructure. Federal investments in ports, the fleet, and upgraded processing facilities help to protect jobs; advance efficiency, sustainability, and safety; and ensure high-quality products that meet both domestic and international demand.

Programs, Grants and Loans

USDA Rural Development

Rural Business-Cooperative Services 
RBCS offers financial assistance, technical support, and resources to help rural businesses expand, become more competitive, and promote community development.

Agriculture Innovation Center Program 
This program awards grants to eligible Agriculture Innovation Centers that help ag producers develop and market value-added agricultural products.

Value Added Producer Grant 
These grants help agricultural producers generate new products, create or expand marketing opportunities, and increase producer income.

Rural Energy for America Program 
This program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Among other uses, funds may be used for renewable energy systems, such as ocean (tidal, current, thermal) generation.

Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program 
Provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to provide microloans, training, and technical assistance to borrowers and entrepreneurs.

Intermediary Relending Program 
This program provides low-interest loans to local lenders – “intermediaries” – who then relend to businesses to help improve economic conditions and create jobs in rural communities. 

Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant 
These loans and grants fund eligible projects using local utility organizations as intermediary lenders.
 

USDA Agricultural Marketing Service

Wholesale Markets and Facility Design 
The Wholesale Markets and Facility Design team provides technical assistance and support to stakeholders regarding the construction of new structures or the remodeling of existing ones. These facilities include wholesale markets, farmers markets, public markets, incubator kitchens, and food hubs, all of which are important parts of the national food distribution network.