Montana Pulse Crop Market Development Program

The Pulse Crop Market Development Program is overseen by the Montana Department of Agriculture and determined by the Montana Pulse Crop Committee, with a mission to improve the return on investment for Montana pulse-crop farmers. The Committee allocates its annual budget across three goals: Market Development (25–30% — expanding domestic and international markets for pulse crops); Communication & Education (20% — industry and producer education); and Innovation and Development (35% — innovation, agronomic/economic development, and product development). Research-specific projects are funded separately through the USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council (USADPLC) RFP.

Eligible applicants include: agricultural organizations, research institutions, industry associations, and other entities.

Market Development Program timeline: RFP open December 12, 2025; closes February 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.; application presentations March 2–4, 2026; awards March 2026, funding by June.

To submit a proposal: review the funding guidelines to ensure alignment with the committee's goals; prepare a detailed proposal outlining scope, objectives, and expected outcomes; and submit through the WebGrants system by the deadline. Applicants present a brief overview of the proposal (in person or via video). Research-specific projects are handled by the USADPLC RFP.