Understanding FPAC Business Center
What is FPAC?
The Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) Business Center is a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides operational support, financial services, and technology solutions to three key USDA agencies:
- Farm Service Agency (FSA) – Administers farm loan and assistance programs.
- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) – Supports conservation efforts on private lands.
- Risk Management Agency (RMA) – Manages federal crop insurance programs.
The FPAC Business Center ensures these agencies have the resources, IT infrastructure, and financial management systems needed to support farmers, ranchers, and landowners effectively.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Financial & Budget Management: Oversees USDA’s farm program payments, grants, and conservation funding.
- Human Resources & Workforce Development: Manages recruitment, training, and personnel policies for FPAC agencies.
- Procurement & Contracting: Facilitates USDA farm-related contracts and vendor services.
- Information Technology & Cybersecurity: Supports digital infrastructure, cloud computing, and data security for USDA programs.
- Customer & Data Services: Enhances user experience and data transparency for farmers and government stakeholders.
Mission and Goals
The FPAC Business Center aims to streamline administrative operations and improve service delivery for USDA’s farm and conservation programs. Its goal is to provide efficient financial, IT, and procurement services that support agricultural sustainability, economic stability, and climate resilience.
FPAC Organization
The FPAC Business Center works alongside three USDA agencies to provide operational support:
- Farm Service Agency (FSA) – Administers farm loan programs, disaster assistance, and commodity programs.
- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) – Supports conservation projects, technical assistance, and environmental stewardship.
- Risk Management Agency (RMA) – Manages crop insurance and risk management programs for farmers.
The Business Center itself is divided into specialized offices, including:
- Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO): Manages budgets, payments, and financial planning.
- Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO): Handles IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital services.
- Office of Contracting & Procurement (OCP): Manages vendor contracts and business opportunities with USDA.
- Office of Human Capital Management (OHCM): Oversees workforce development and HR services.
Advancing Your Career as a Contractor with FPAC Business Center
Helpful Tips for IT Professionals and Consultants:
- Understand FPAC’s Role in USDA: Contractors should align their services with IT modernization, financial automation, and agricultural data management.
- Stay Current with Federal Procurement Guidelines: FPAC contracts operate under Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), USDA procurement rules, and cybersecurity compliance (FISMA, FedRAMP).
- Master FPAC IT & Financial Systems: Key USDA platforms include:
- Financial Management Modernization Initiative (FMMI) – USDA’s financial and payment processing system.
- Conservation Client Gateway (CCG) – NRCS’s digital platform for conservation program applications.
- Farm Loan Program (FLP) System – FSA’s digital loan application and management system.
- Prioritize Cybersecurity & Cloud Solutions: FPAC is adopting cloud computing, AI-driven analytics, and secure data management solutions.
- Engage with USDA Industry Events & Training: Attend FPAC business outreach events, USDA vendor summits, and IT modernization briefings to stay informed on contracting opportunities.
- Enhance Efficiency & Automation: FPAC values AI-powered data processing, blockchain for financial transactions, and GIS-based farm mapping solutions.