Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Farm Bill 2026
The USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program 2026 funds State agriculture departments to boost specialty crop competitiveness through marketing, research, access, and support for producers in all U.S. states and territories.
Funder: Agricultural Marketing Service
Due Dates: June 8, 2026
Funding Amounts: ~$86.6 million total; state allocations range from ~$288,736 to $28.9 million; up to 3-year project period
Summary: Supports state agriculture departments in projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through research, marketing, food safety, and access initiatives.
Key Information: Only state departments of agriculture are eligible direct applicants; no cost share required for FY26 but will be required starting FY27.
Description
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, provides funding to state departments of agriculture to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops—including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Projects may focus on marketing and promotion, research and development, expanding access and availability, addressing producer challenges, and other initiatives that benefit the broader specialty crop sector.
The program is designed to support projects that have measurable outcomes benefiting multiple producers or the public, rather than a single organization or individual. States are encouraged to engage stakeholders, conduct competitive sub-award processes, and focus on priorities such as food safety, nutrition, pest and disease control, sustainability, and supply chain efficiency.
