Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Forecasted
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program supports Vermont specialty crop producers through technical assistance, training, and tools that strengthen their businesses and improve crop competitiveness.
Funder: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: 2026 requests: $15,000–$35,000; projects up to 2 years, 6 months
Summary: Supports technical assistance, training, and tools that strengthen Vermont specialty crop businesses and industries.
Key Information: Projects must benefit more than one producer.
Description
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service funds the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, which the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets administers in Vermont. It aims to make Vermont and regionally grown specialty crops more competitive by addressing growers’ needs and strengthening local and regional food systems. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, horticultural crops, and nursery crops.
For the 2026 cycle, projects focus on direct technical assistance, training, or tool development for specialty crop businesses and organizations. Activities may include consulting and planning, workshops, online learning materials, and practical business tools. Vermont’s priorities span production practices, pest and disease management, food safety, value-chain relationships, farm viability, market access, and producer collaboration.
