Funding Available for Wool Export Samples

February 25, 2005 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture?s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is now accepting applications for its 2005-2006 programs.

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) is the recipient of funding through three FAS programs: Quality Samples Program, Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development.  These funds are used to expand export sales for U.S. wool. FAS programs help U.S. agricultural groups promote and increase awareness of their products to potential importers in international markets.

Participants are responsible for providing and exporting wool/wool products to potential importers and must provide financing and trade servicing as well. They may seek reimbursement for promotion, travel samples and transportation fees. Participants need to assemble large enough lots to fully supply the needs of the importer and to be cost effective for export-size lots.

If you are willing to venture into international wool trade, please contact the ASI office. As designated by FAS, funds may be used to promote exports to new customers or to encourage an existing customer to purchase a different wool type. The target country must be part of the ASI program in order to be allowed.

ASI will be submitting its 2005-2006 plan to FAS by March 14, 2005.

For more information about the FAS programs, please visit the USDA Web site at: www.fas.usda.gov/mos/programs/QSP.html.

This is an equal opportunity program. ASI programs are open to all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion or disability.

Staff contact: Rita Kourlis Samuelson, ext. 29