Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP)
Forecasted
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) supports Rhode Island specialty crop producers through research, marketing, food safety, and other projects that strengthen their crops’ competitiveness.
Funder: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Approximately $270,000 anticipated across 2026 awards; no maximum award
Summary: Supports projects that improve the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Rhode Island.
Key Information: Projects must benefit the specialty crop industry or public, not a single organization, individual, or commercial product.
Description
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is a federally supported program administered in Rhode Island by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management’s Division of Agriculture. It funds projects that improve the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Rhode Island, including fruits, vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, horticulture, and nursery crops such as floriculture.
Projects may focus on research, promotion, marketing, trade, product development, food safety, plant health, or increasing consumption. Other examples include improving distribution, addressing environmental concerns, and developing cooperatives. DEM seeks measurable benefits for Rhode Island specialty crop producers.
