USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
This grant helps Maine commercial farms buy minor equipment to improve production, harvesting, and processing of specialty crops, focusing on local food, market access, or food safety.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Written questions) | April 2027 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Awards between $2,000–$10,000 per recipient; total program funding up to $290,000 (anticipated).
Summary: Supports Maine commercial farms in purchasing minor equipment to enhance the competitiveness of Maine-grown specialty crops.
Description
This program, administered by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) and funded by the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, is designed to help commercial farms in Maine enhance the production, harvesting, and processing of specialty crops. The grant reimburses competitively selected applicants for minor equipment purchases that directly support the competitiveness of Maine-grown and harvested specialty crops, such as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Projects must address one of three priority areas: local food consumption, market access, or food safety. The program is highly structured, with a clear rubric and strict eligibility and cost guidelines.
