Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Forecasted
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program supports Missouri growers and the broader industry through research, food safety, nutrition, and sustainability projects that strengthen specialty crop competitiveness.
Funder: Missouri Department of Agriculture
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 per project for up to 24 months; reimbursement only
Summary: Supports research, food safety, nutrition, distribution, and sustainability projects that enhance specialty crop competitiveness.
Key Information: Projects must benefit the broader specialty crop industry, not solely generate profit for one applicant.
Description
The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) administers the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in the United States or its territories in domestic or foreign markets. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruit, maple syrup, honey, and horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. Projects must deliver measurable industry benefits and share results, research findings, and conclusions with growers and other beneficiaries.
Supported priorities include food safety and Food Safety Modernization Act compliance throughout the distribution chain; specialty crop research, including conservation and environmental outcomes; new seed varieties and crops; pest and disease control; child and adult nutrition knowledge and specialty crop consumption; distribution efficiency and cost reduction; and sustainability. Research and demonstration projects with outreach to Missouri growers are among the program’s acceptable project examples.
