Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), administered by the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), is a federally funded initiative aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of specialty crops within the state. Specialty crops are broadly defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture. This program is part of a larger national initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), with Colorado's share of the funds managed and distributed by CDA. Each year, the program invites applications from a wide range of stakeholders in the agricultural sector to support projects that address challenges and opportunities related to specialty crops. The SCBGP provides funding to producer groups, organizations, and associations, as well as governmental bodies and academic institutions. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, colleges and universities, nonprofits, and other entities engaged in the specialty crop industry. Individual producers may also apply, but must demonstrate that their projects benefit a broader community or segment of the industry rather than a single individual or business. The CDA emphasizes inclusivity and collective impact, requiring proposals to show measurable benefits to regions or sectors of the industry. For the FFY 2026 cycle, CDA anticipates allocating approximately $700,000 in total funding. Projects funded under this cycle may begin no earlier than January 1, 2027, and must be completed by November 15, 2028. The program operates under a two-phase application process. Phase 1 requires the submission of a concept proposal, which is reviewed by a committee of experts. Applicants selected to proceed to Phase 2 will be invited to submit a detailed project plan. The concept proposal phase is currently open and will close on February 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM MST. CDA has scheduled an informational webinar for January 13, 2026, to assist applicants in preparing their submissions. CDA encourages applications that align with state priorities, including enhancing market access and profitability, addressing labor shortages, investing in agricultural technology, and mitigating risks related to pests, diseases, and climate. The agency prioritizes projects with a clear, statewide impact and a focus on innovation, sustainability, and resilience in agriculture. Funding may not be used for projects that solely benefit an individual entity, business, or producer, and subrecipients may not claim reimbursement for any expenses incurred before the execution of a grant agreement. The timeline for the FFY 2026 grant cycle is well-defined. After concept proposals are submitted and reviewed in February and March 2026, selected applicants will be notified by late March or early April. Full project plans are due by April 17, 2026, with final submissions to USDA expected by late April or early May. Award notices are anticipated by September 30, 2026, and projects may begin as early as January 1, 2027. Annual reports are due each November during the project period and one year post-completion. The CDA may adjust this schedule as necessary without prior notice. For questions or technical support, applicants are encouraged to contact CDA via email at [email protected] or by phone at 303-869-9000. Additional resources, including registration links for the webinar and guidelines from previous funding cycles, are available on the CDA website. The program emphasizes transparency and accessibility and offers accommodations for individuals with disabilities upon request.