Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Forecasted
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funds Nebraska-based research and innovation to improve the science, sustainability, and market competitiveness of specialty crops.
Funder: Nebraska Department of Agriculture
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027: Concept Proposals Due (projected) | March 2027: Grant Proposals Due (projected)
Funding Amounts: ~$700,000–$820,000 total available per cycle; no maximum award; up to 3-year projects; no match required.
Summary: Supports projects that enhance the competitiveness of Nebraska specialty crops through research, innovation, and market development.
Description
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, administered by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), provides competitive funding for projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Nebraska. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). The program aims to support research, education, market development, food safety, pest and disease control, and other initiatives that benefit the specialty crop sector and its stakeholders.
Projects should demonstrate measurable outcomes that benefit the broader specialty crop industry in Nebraska, rather than a single organization or individual. Funding priorities include education and outreach, nutrition, environmental conservation, food safety, pest and disease control, trade innovation, good agricultural practices, and sustainable production.
