The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has announced the availability of funding through the Fiscal Year 2025 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. This program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service (USDA-AMS) and is designed to support projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Kansas. Specialty crops, as defined by the USDA, include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture. The grant program seeks to improve market opportunities, assist with research and development, expand access to specialty crops, and address various challenges faced by specialty crop producers on local, regional, and national levels.
Applications for this funding opportunity will be assessed by an external review team that evaluates proposals based on their potential to positively impact the specialty crop industry in Kansas and contribute to the state’s economy. The review team will make recommendations to the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, who will have the final authority in awarding funds. Eligible projects must directly benefit specialty crop growers and demonstrate measurable outcomes that align with the goals of the program.
In 2025, Kansas will receive approximately $330,000 in Specialty Crop Block Grant funding. The awarded funds are distributed based on the value and acreage of specialty crops in the state. Grant recipients must ensure their projects adhere to all USDA-AMS guidelines for the appropriate use of funds. The program supports a variety of initiatives, including marketing efforts, supply chain improvements, production research, and consumer education.
Interested applicants must submit their proposals by 5:00 p.m. on March 31, 2025. The Kansas Department of Agriculture encourages applicants to thoroughly review the Kansas Request for Applications document, which is available on their website at agriculture.ks.gov/grants. The document provides detailed instructions on application requirements, funding limitations, and project eligibility criteria.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture is committed to fostering a strong agricultural economy and providing resources to support farmers, agribusinesses, and communities throughout the state. Through programs like the Specialty Crop Block Grant, the agency aims to strengthen agricultural sustainability and economic growth in Kansas.
For further inquiries, applicants may contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture at their Manhattan, KS office or reach out to Heather Lansdowne, Director of Communications, at Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov. Phone inquiries can be directed to 785-564-6700.
