Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Farm Bill 2026

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), through its Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), is soliciting applications for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) for fiscal year 2026. This program provides grants to eligible State departments of agriculture across the 50 States and various U.S. territories, including American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The goal of these grants is to support projects that improve the competitiveness of specialty crops, which include fruits, vegetables, dried fruits, tree nuts, horticulture, and nursery crops such as floriculture. The SCBGP aims to advance specialty crop industries by funding initiatives that enhance marketing and promotion efforts, support research and development, increase availability and access to specialty crops, and address various local, regional, and national challenges faced by specialty crop producers. The program also allows for additional activities deemed appropriate by the Secretary of Agriculture in consultation with relevant stakeholders. Applications must be submitted by June 8, 2026, and inquiries can be directed to the Agricultural Marketing Service through the provided contact information. This solicitation emphasizes collaboration with State departments of agriculture to promote sustainable growth and competitiveness within the specialty crop sector.