TASC Funding Available

USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is still accepting applications for fiscal year 2009 funding for the Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops (TASC) Program. TASC applications are accepted on a rolling basis and may be submitted at any time throughout this fiscal year.

The TASC program makes available $7 million in funding to assist U.S. organizations in addressing foreign phytosanitary or related technical restrictions that prohibit or threaten the export of U.S. specialty crops.

Organizations are encouraged, but not required, to submit their TASC applications to FAS using the online Unified Export Strategy (UES). The Web-based application is at www.fas.usda.gov/cooperators.html. Call FAS’ Program Operations Division at 202-720-4327 for a log-on ID and password.

Applicants also have the option of submitting an electronic application in the UES format to FAS by e-mail or on compact disc. The application format is available at www.fas.usda.gov/mos/tasc/proposals.html.

Applications not submitted via the Internet can be hand delivered to USDA, Foreign Agricultural Service, Program Operations Division, Portals Office Building, Suite 400, 1250 Maryland Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20024; mailed to USDA, Foreign Agricultural Service, Office of Trade Programs, Program Operations Division, Stop 1052, 1400 Independence Ave. S.W., Washington, DC 20250-1052; or e-mailed to emo@fas.usda.gov.

All private sector applicants must obtain a Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) number for federal assistance prior to submitting applications. An applicant may request a DUNS number at no cost by calling 1-866-705-5711.

Details on FAS’ TASC program and application procedures can be found at www.fas.usda.gov/mos/tasc/tasc.asp.