Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Forecasted
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funds Louisiana-based research and innovation to improve specialty crop competitiveness, focusing on pest management, food safety, and sustainable practices.
Funder: Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Request for proposals deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards up to $100,000–$150,000 per project; project periods generally up to 2–3 years.
Summary: Supports projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Louisiana through marketing, research, food safety, and pest management initiatives.
Key Information: This is a forecasted opportunity; all dates are projected and subject to change.
Description
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), administered by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry (LDAF), provides competitive funding to projects that improve the competitiveness of specialty crops in Louisiana. The program is funded through the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service and supports a wide range of initiatives, including marketing and promotion, research and development, food safety compliance, and pest and disease management for specialty crops. Eligible projects are intended to benefit multiple producers or the broader specialty crop sector rather than a single individual or organization.
Specialty crops are defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). The program encourages projects that address local, regional, or national challenges, expand market access, improve food safety, and promote sustainable practices.
