; (D) to encourage the development of new food products and value-added agricultural products; (E) to assist with business development and feasibility studies; (F) to develop marketing strategies for producers of local food products and value-added agricultural products in new and existing markets; (G) to facilitate regional food chain coordination and mid-tier value chain development; (H) to promote new business opportunities and marketing strategies to reduce on-farm food waste; or (I) to respond to changing technology needs in direct producer-to-consumer marketing. (3) Criteria and guidelines for applications The Secretary shall establish such criteria and guidelines for the submission of applications, evaluation, and funding of proposed projects under the Program as the Secretary determines are appropriate. (4) Priorities (A) Required priority The Secretary shall give priority to applications submitted under paragraph (3) that— (i) are applied for by or serve— (I) beginning farmers or ranchers; (II) socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers; (III) operators of small or medium sized farms or ranches that are structured as family farms; or (IV) veteran farmers or ranchers; (ii) benefit underserved communities, including communities that are located in areas of concentrated poverty with limited access to fresh locally or regionally grown food. (B) Discretionary priority The Secretary may give priority to applications submitted under paragraph (3) that— (i) are applied for by an eligible entity participating in a partnership agreement