How to apply: specialty crop growers can tap into $100M+ in USDA grants
Apply through your state department of agriculture or Grants.gov before the June 8 and October 2026 deadlines.
The USDA is releasing over $100 million in grant funding to support projects aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables and tree nuts, according to a news release.
Through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), $86.6 million is available for projects focused on marketing, education and research. Funding is allocated to states and U.S. territories using a formula based on specialty crop acreage and production value.
The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is accepting SCBGP applications through June 8, 2026.
Eligible applicants include state departments of agriculture and agricultural agencies in all 50 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and U.S. territories. States and territories will then distribute approved grant funds to local projects that benefit specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops.
Growers and organizations interested in funding must apply through their state departments of agriculture. A list of state contacts is available on the SCBGP website.
In addition, USDA is offering $14.3 million through the Specialty Crop Multi-State Program (SCMP), which supports collaborative projects across state lines. Applications for SCMP funding are due Oct. 16, 2026.
SCMP grants are available to state departments of agriculture, local governments, tribal organizations, universities and nonprofits. Projects must involve partners in at least two states and address issues such as food safety, pest and disease management, research, and marketing and promotion.
Both programs support a wide range of specialty crops, including fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and nursery and floriculture crops.
Applications for both programs must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET within the respective deadlines. Late applications will not be considered without documented extenuating circumstances.
Funding for SCBGP and SCMP is authorized through P.L. 119-21, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”
For more information, visit the SCBGP or SCMP websites or contact USDA AMS program staff directly.