Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), administered by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), is a state-level implementation of a federal initiative funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, which the USDA defines as fruits, vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, horticulture (including maple syrup and honey), and nursery crops (including floriculture). The SCBGP is part of a broader effort to support the agricultural sector by fostering innovation, improving access to markets, and advancing food safety and sustainability within specialty crop industries. For FY2026, MDAR is soliciting proposals for projects that strengthen the production and marketability of specialty crops in Massachusetts. The program prioritizes projects that enhance nutrition awareness and access, improve distribution efficiency, promote environmental sustainability, and support underserved communities. Examples of eligible projects include research into sustainable production practices, pest and disease control, food safety improvements, development of new seed varieties, and education campaigns promoting specialty crop consumption. Projects that primarily benefit a single commercial product or provide a direct profit to a single entity are ineligible. All projects must demonstrate public benefit and alignment with USDA's definition of specialty crops. Approximately $320,000 is available through this competitive opportunity, with individual awards suggested to range between $40,000 and $90,000. Projects may span from one to three years but must be completed by September 29, 2029, with no start date before October 1, 2026. Funding is contingent upon the availability of federal funds and final USDA approval. MDAR reserves the right to partially fund proposals, request revisions to project timelines or budgets, and require awardees to acknowledge MDAR support in applicable outputs. Notably, SCBGP funds are provided on a reimbursement basis and indirect costs are not permitted. The application process for FY2026 opened with the release of the RFR on February 23, 2026. Proposals must be submitted via email to Keri Cornman by 2:00 PM ET on Friday, April 3, 2026. Late submissions, including those delayed due to technical issues, will not be considered. Required application components include a completed Form C, project summary, timeline, budget, outcome measures, and supporting documentation as outlined in the RFR and available on COMMBUYS. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the SCBGP Application Form C in detail and to register for one of the informational webinars hosted on March 12 and March 17, 2026. Eligible applicants include farmers, ranchers, non-profit organizations, local governments, for-profit organizations, industry trade associations, producer groups, and commodity commissions. While individuals and single organizations may not apply for projects that benefit only their operations, they are encouraged to partner with broader initiatives. Applicants are evaluated based on criteria such as project relevance, objectives, data collection plans, budget clarity, community support, and past performance. New applicants may receive up to 10 bonus points, while previous grantees with poor performance histories may be penalized. Successful applicants must comply with annual and final reporting requirements and demonstrate measurable outcomes that align with USDA priorities. Outcomes may include increased specialty crop consumption, improved food safety, pest and disease control, expanded distribution networks, new crop varieties, and enhanced environmental practices. All funded activities must comply with federal, state, and local regulations, and selected applicants will be required to complete standard contracting documentation. The State Plan will be submitted to USDA in May 2026, and awards will begin on or after October 1, 2026.