Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Forecasted
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program supports Utah specialty crop producers through research, marketing, supply-chain, education, and food safety projects that strengthen crop competitiveness.
Funder: Utah Department of Agriculture and Food
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 per project; $300,000–$350,000 anticipated for the 2026 round; projects may run up to three years
Summary: Supports projects that strengthen the competitiveness of Utah-grown specialty crops through research, marketing, supply-chain improvements, and education.
Key Information: Projects must benefit more than one producer or organization, and applicants need a Unique Entity Identifier.
Description
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) runs this competitive program with funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It supports projects that enhance the competitiveness of Utah-grown specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticultural crops, and nursery crops. Projects must benefit more than one producer or organization.
The 2026 priorities emphasize stronger supply chains and market access, research and development, producer education and workforce development, and food safety and regulatory compliance. Examples include aggregation and storage, marketing and consumer education, new seed or plant varieties, pest and disease management, and conservation practices.
