By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant program. The program supports projects that improve the competitiveness of Minnesota grown specialty crops in domestic and foreign markets. Funding is provided through the United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service.
Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, flowers, tree nuts and other high value crops. These crops contribute to farm income food availability and local economies across the state. The grant program is designed to strengthen the entire specialty crop sector rather than support individual businesses.
Priority is given to projects that support beginning farmers and first-time specialty crop producers. Helping new growers gain skills in access markets and improve production plays an important role in building a strong future for the specialty crop industry.
Marketing and promotion projects are also encouraged. These efforts aim to increase awareness and sales of specialty crops by connecting producers with new buyers and expanding existing markets. Projects that improve branding packaging and outreach can help Minnesota products compete more effectively.
Another focus area is aggregation and distribution. Many specialty crop producers face challenges in reaching large or distant markets. Projects that improve storage transportation and coordination help increase access to customers and boost sales opportunities.
The grant also supports projects that prevent and manage pests and diseases. Crop health issues can reduce yield quality and profitability. Funding may support education research or management practices that help protect specialty crops and reduce losses.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture expects to award about one point two five million dollars through a competitive review process. Individual awards will range from twenty-five thousand to one hundred twenty-five thousand dollars. An estimated twelve to fifteen grants will be issued depending on final award amounts.
Complete eligibility rules and application details are available on the department Specialty Crop Block Grant webpage. Applications must be submitted by four p m on Wednesday February eleven to two thousand twenty-six.
This is a federally funded program. Publishing the request for proposals does not commit the state to awarding any federal funds.
Photo Credit: minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Business, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Government & Policy