Request for Proposals (RFP)
Technical Service Providers (TSPs)
American Lamb Board (ALB)
USDA Advanced Markets for Producers (AMP) Program
Opportunity Overview
The American Lamb Board (ALB), as a recipient of funding under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) Program, is soliciting proposals from qualified Technical Service Providers (TSPs) to deliver technical assistance to eligible sheep producers.
The purpose of this RFP is to establish a pool of qualified service providers to support producers in implementing practices that enhance market access, operational resilience, and long-term sustainability.
Program Background & Objectives
The USDA AMP Program supports agricultural producers in developing and expanding market opportunities for domestically produced agricultural commodities.
Through this program, ALB provides technical assistance to 150 selected sheep producers to:
Improve production efficiency and profitability
Adopt conservation and regenerative agricultural practices
Strengthen supply chain coordination and market readiness
Enhance resilience to environmental and economic risks
TSPs will play a critical role in delivering individualized, operation-specific guidance aligned with program objectives.
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Selected TSPs shall provide technical assistance services to enrolled producers, which may include, but are not limited to:
Comprehensive operation assessments
In-person initial visit and completion visit at the conclusion of the grant.
Development of grazing management and conservation plans
Flock health, nutrition, and reproductive management strategies
Infrastructure and resource management recommendations
Recordkeeping systems and performance benchmarking
Genetic selection tools (NSIP) for advancing flock productivity
Market readiness assessments and value chain alignment
Soil health evaluation and nutrient management planning
Farm summary data submission for multiple calculators
Services may be delivered through a combination of:
On-site technical assistance
Remote/virtual consultations
Written plans, reports, and recommendations
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Applicants must demonstrate the following qualifications:
Documented expertise in sheep production systems
Experience providing technical assistance to agricultural producers
Working knowledge of NRCS conservation planning processes and practice standards
Experience with Cooperative Extension, agricultural outreach, or applied producer education
Ability to communicate technical information effectively to diverse producer audiences
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Preference will be given to applicants with:
NRCS-certified Technical Service Provider or Ag Extension professionals
Academic or professional background in animal science, range management, or related fields
Demonstrated experience with regenerative agriculture and conservation systems
Familiarity with regional production conditions and constraints
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TSPs shall be required to:
Conduct initial producer assessments and document baseline conditions
Develop and deliver written technical recommendations and/or plans
Provide follow-up technical assistance, as appropriate
Maintain accurate records of services provided
Submit periodic performance and activity reports to ALB
Host a regional workshop at a grant site
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Proposals must include the following components:
Cover Letter (1 Page)
Statement of interest and summary of qualifications
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (1 Page)
Relevant professional experience, certifications, and education
Geographic Service Area
Regions where the applicant is available to provide services
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The anticipated period of performance will be:
Start Date: July-September 2026
End Date: September 2028
Compensation: $4,000 per producer
Application Submission Instructions
Applications, including a cover letter, resume and geographic service area should be submitted through the online form.