Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Forecasted
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program supports Mississippi's specialty crop industry through research, education, and marketing projects that strengthen crop competitiveness in domestic and foreign markets.
Funder: Mississippi Department of Agriculture & Commerce
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Funding is subject to USDA availability and receipt by MDAC; no federal match required
Summary: Supports research, education, marketing, and other projects solely enhancing the competitiveness of Mississippi-grown specialty crops.
Key Information: Projects must benefit the specialty crop industry or public, not solely one commercial product, organization, or individual.
Description
The Mississippi Department of Agriculture & Commerce (MDAC) administers this USDA-funded program to enhance the competitiveness of Mississippi-grown specialty crops in domestic and foreign markets. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. The program supports marketing and promotion, research and development, expanded availability and access, and solutions to challenges facing specialty crop producers.
Projects must produce measurable benefits for the specialty crop industry or the public. Research findings must be shared with growers, rather than retained solely for an applicant’s benefit. The program encourages multi-state partnerships addressing shared challenges such as food safety, crop productivity, quality, and pest or disease management.
