Unlock Opportunities in 2026: The American Lamb Board Announces Funding for Promotions and Research
The American Lamb Board (ALB) is keeping its mission strong by announcing two major funding opportunities. With $50,000 set aside for consumer promotional events and $350,000 for research projects, there are exciting possibilities for anyone looking to advance the American lamb industry.
“The American Lamb Board is making a strategic investment of Lamb Checkoff dollars to drive both promotion and research,” says ALB Chairman Jeff Ebert. “These funding opportunities are an opportunity to ensure the industry’s continued growth and innovation.”
Here’s everything you need to know to apply for funding.
Bring Lamb to Your Community: $50,000 for Local Promotions and Branded Marketing Programs
ALB is offering support for local events and branded marketing efforts. Whether you’re planning cooking classes, farm tours, participation at a local food festival, or working on retail and foodservice promotions, these funds can help bring your vision to life! Funding covers marketing materials, promotional activities, and more, as long as your event or promotion connects directly with consumers or customers (chefs, retailers).
Important to Know:
• Applications are due at least 30 days before your event or promotion start date.
• A 50% funding match is required, with a maximum reimbursement of $10 per pound for lamb products.
• Final reports and receipts are needed for payment.
• Industry-only events, equipment purchases, staffing, and political activities are not eligible.
How to Apply:
1. Prepare a 2-page summary proposal outlining your project (events can be between Nov 2025 and May 2026).
2. Participate in a committee review, including a possible interview.
3. Finalize your contract and program details, including USDA approval.
Download the complete guidelines and the application instructions here.
Advancing American Lamb Through Research
Are you interested in leading a project that could help sheep producers innovate and improve competitiveness? ALB is offering research grants for topics that address the following critical industry priorities.
1) Overcoming hurdles for the expansion of domestic sheep production, including topics like parasite control, non-traditional grazing opportunities, quantifying the benefits of adding sheep to an existing agricultural operation or utilizing genetic selection to promote flock expansion efforts.
2) Increasing the competitiveness and advancing the quality of American Lamb, including topics like new product development, using genetics to improve carcass quality or productivity, animal health and welfare, environmental impacts of sheep production, or human health and nutrition.
Research Grant Policies:
No more than 10% of the grant may go to overhead/indirect costs.
Quarterly and final progress reports are required.
Research outcomes may be co-owned with participating universities.
Studies are required to be reviewed and approved by ALB and USDA prior to dissemination or publishing.
How the Process Works:
1. Submit a 2-page summary proposal by November 15, 2025.
2. Undergo committee review and interview (November 15 to December 15, 2025).
3. If selected, submit a detailed proposal (Dec 15, 2025 to Jan 30, 2026) including your methodology, dissemination plan, budget, team contacts, support letters, and CVs.
Download the complete guidelines and the application instructions here.
Ready to Apply?
This is your chance to bring new energy to the lamb community—whether you’re aiming to connect with consumers or shape the future of American sheep production. Be sure to prepare early and review all application requirements to maximize your opportunity for support from the American Lamb Board!
Download Consumer Marketing & Promotional Funding Application