USDA Offers Up to $35M for Global School Feeding Programs in 2026

The USDA's McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program presents a major funding opportunity for organizations working to combat hunger and improve education worldwide. With awards ranging from $10 million to $35 million, this program supports school feeding initiatives in developing countries while promoting U.S. agricultural products.

Understanding the McGovern-Dole Program

The McGovern-Dole program addresses two critical global challenges: food security and education access. Organizations receive funding to provide school meals using predominantly U.S.-sourced agricultural commodities, creating a powerful connection between American farmers and vulnerable children worldwide.

The program focuses on two strategic objectives. First, it aims to improve literacy among school-aged children, particularly girls who often face educational barriers. Second, it works to increase the use of proper health, nutrition, and dietary practices in target communities.

Priority Countries and Funding Structure

For the 2026 funding cycle, USDA has identified seven priority countries where applications will receive preferential consideration:

• Bolivia (USDA-FAS-10.608-0700-26-511)
• Cambodia (USDA-FAS-10.608-0700-26-442)
• Ecuador (USDA-FAS-10.608-0700-26-518)
• Guinea (USDA-FAS-10.608-0700-26-675)
• Honduras (USDA-FAS-10.608-0700-26-522)
• Liberia (USDA-FAS-10.608-0700-26-669)
• Timor Leste (USDA-FAS-10.608-0700-26-472)

Applications are evaluated only against other submissions for the same country, making country selection a crucial strategic decision. While the USDA accepts applications for non-priority countries, funding for these proposals remains rare.

Key Program Requirements and America First Focus

The 2026 McGovern-Dole program emphasizes America First objectives, reflecting current policy priorities. Successful applications must demonstrate a strong commitment to purchasing U.S. agricultural commodities from American farmers. This requirement creates economic benefits domestically while addressing international humanitarian needs.

Projects must include clear oversight and monitoring systems to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. The USDA expects detailed accountability measures and transparent reporting throughout the project lifecycle.

Perhaps most importantly, applications need realistic sustainability strategies. The USDA wants to see how project activities will continue after McGovern-Dole funding ends, ensuring lasting impact rather than temporary relief.

Eligible Activities and Project Components

All McGovern-Dole projects must provide school feeding programs using a combination of U.S.-provided and locally procured commodities. Beyond basic feeding, projects can include complementary activities such as:

• Teacher training programs to improve educational quality
• Infrastructure improvements like kitchen facilities and water systems
• Community education on nutrition and health practices
• Support for maternal, infant, and child nutrition initiatives
• Literacy programs specifically targeting girls and vulnerable populations

The program encourages holistic approaches that address both immediate hunger needs and long-term development goals.

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include non-governmental organizations, cooperatives, intergovernmental organizations, universities, and other institutions with demonstrated experience in international development. Organizations must show previous success managing large-scale feeding programs and working in challenging international environments.

The USDA particularly values applicants with existing relationships in target countries, established supply chains for commodity distribution, and proven monitoring and evaluation capabilities.

Application Process and Timeline

The application deadline is July 27, 2026, giving organizations substantial time to develop comprehensive proposals. Applications must reference the specific country identification number from the list above.

Organizations should access the Food Aid Information System (FAIS) early in their planning process. This system contains detailed application instructions, country-specific guidance, and weekly responses to applicant questions.

The USDA provides evaluation reports from previous McGovern-Dole projects in Cambodia, Honduras, Liberia, and Timor-Leste. These reports offer valuable insights into successful project design and implementation strategies.

Strategic Considerations for Applicants

Given the competitive nature of this funding, organizations should begin preparation immediately. Start by analyzing previous project evaluations to understand what works in specific country contexts. Develop relationships with local partners, government officials, and community leaders in target countries.

Cost sharing is not required for this opportunity, but demonstrating additional resource mobilization can strengthen applications. Consider how private sector partnerships, local government contributions, or other donor funding might supplement USDA support.

Focus on measurable outcomes related to both education and nutrition. The USDA expects clear metrics showing improvements in school attendance, literacy rates, and nutritional status among beneficiary children.

Building Successful Partnerships

Strong partnerships often determine project success. Work with established organizations in target countries that understand local contexts and have community trust. Connect with U.S. agricultural producers who can supply required commodities reliably.

Consider forming consortiums with complementary organizations. A partnership between an education-focused NGO and a nutrition specialist organization might create a stronger application than either could develop alone.

Ready to pursue this significant funding opportunity? Creating a free account on GovGrantsUSA gives you access to detailed application guidance, deadline reminders, and expert support to help you develop a winning McGovern-Dole proposal.