Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Forecasted
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program supports Arizona specialty crop stakeholders with research, education, production, and market projects that strengthen the sector’s competitiveness.
Funder: Arizona Department of Agriculture
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 per request for projects lasting up to 24 months; approximately $1.25 million projected per cycle
Summary: Supports projects that strengthen the competitiveness of Arizona’s specialty crop sectors through research, education, production, and market improvements.
Key Information: Projects must benefit more than one commercial product, organization, or individual.
Description
The Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) administers this federally funded program in Arizona; the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has final approval over awards. It supports projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops such as floriculture. Eligible commodities also include Christmas trees, cut flowers, maple syrup, honey, hops, and tea leaves.
Arizona’s stated priorities include water-conscious production, food safety and agricultural practices, pest and disease research, distribution efficiency, market access, “buy local” promotion, and nutrition education. Projects may address domestic or foreign markets, but must deliver benefits beyond a single business, product, or individual.
