This grant funds projects that support the National Clean Plant Network’s efforts to produce, maintain, and distribute pathogen-free plant material to protect U.S. specialty crops and enhance their global competitiveness.
Funder: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Due Dates: October 19, 2026 (Full proposal, 11:59 PM ET)
Funding Amounts: At least $10,000,000 total; typical awards up to $3,500,000 each for up to 12 months.
Summary: Supports projects establishing and optimizing Clean Plant Centers that provide pathogen-free plant material for U.S. specialty crops.
This opportunity from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) funds projects under the Plant Protection Act Section 7721 National Clean Plant Network (NCPN). The NCPN program aims to build and maintain a nationwide network of Clean Plant Centers that produce, maintain, and distribute pathogen-tested, clean propagative plant material for specialty crops such as fruit trees, grapes, citrus, berries, hops, sweet potatoes, and roses.
The program supports diagnostic and pathogen elimination services, foundational blocks of clean plant material, and initiatives to advance novel technologies and awareness of clean plant resources. Funded projects are expected to align with the NCPN Strategic Plan and demonstrate clear benefits to U.S. specialty crop producers, nurseries, and certification programs.