Mar 8, 2017
USDA makes $60 Million in grants available for specialty crop industry

The U. S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is making more than $60 million in grants available to support farmers growing fruits, vegetables, tree nuts and nursery crops, also known as specialty crops. The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) grants are allocated to U.S. states and territories for projects that help support projects including research, agricultural Extension activities and programs to address the needs of America’s specialty crop industry.

Interested parties should apply directly through their state departments of agriculture, which manage the grant process. A listing of the SCBGP’s state contacts, and how to apply with state application due dates, can be found on the AMS Specialty Crop Block Grant Program web page. State departments of agriculture must submit their applications to AMS by June 7.

USDA encourages states to submit specialty crops projects related to the following priority areas:

  • research
  • food safety
  • sustainability
  • developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops
  • pest and disease control
  • child and adult nutrition improving efficiency of distribution systems
  • and helping businesses to comply with the requirements of the Food Safety Modernization Act.

For more information about these grant programs, including program background, visit www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants. The website also contains a link “What AMS Grant is Right for Me?” under which applicants can use a grants decision tree to determine which AMS grant fits their project best.




Current Issue

VGN April Cover

Tech allows growers to ‘eavesdrop’ on insects

Managing wildlife on the farm

Southwest Florida’s Worden Farm manages challenges

Pennsylvania Vegetable Growers Association says farewell to leader

Southeast Regional Show recognizes leaders

Veg Connections: Biopesticides and beneficial insects

Business: Why do most succession plans fail?

60 years of advocating for agricultural employers

Keeping CSA members engaged and loyal

see all current issue »

Be sure to check out our other specialty agriculture brands

produceprocessingsm Organic Grower