Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

The 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is administered by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Agricultural Marketing Service. This grant program is designed to enhance the competitiveness of Maine’s specialty crops by supporting projects that address market access, education, training, research, sustainability, and innovation within the specialty crop sector. The grant operates through a two-phase application process. Phase I involves submitting a Concept Proposal that outlines a compelling project addressing a clear need among specialty crop producers. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a more detailed Phase II application for inclusion in the state’s USDA SCBGP funding request. Projects that are ultimately selected and approved will be funded under the federal SCBGP as part of the state's plan. Eligible applicants include non-profit and for-profit organizations, government entities, Tribal governments (recognized and unrecognized), and educational institutions. Individuals are not eligible to apply. A single applicant may not receive more than 30% of the total funding awarded under this cycle. Projects may receive funding amounts ranging from $15,000 to $100,000. A total of up to $500,000 may be awarded statewide, contingent upon federal Farm Bill appropriations. The performance period is anticipated to run from September 30, 2026, through September 29, 2028. Applicants must demonstrate alignment with one of three designated funding areas—Market Enhancement, Access/Education/Training, or Research—and one of five specific focus areas including food consumption, crop production, supply chain resiliency, workforce development, and sustainability. The program places particular emphasis on long-term impact, project sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and measurable outcomes. Competitive applications will clearly define beneficiaries, provide detailed outcome tracking plans, and demonstrate industry need and support. Projects must be distinct, non-duplicative, and focused on benefiting multiple producers rather than individual businesses. Phase I concept proposals are due by 5:00 p.m. EST on December 19, 2025. Applicants will be notified about progression to Phase II by February 7, 2026. Technical assistance will be provided in Phase II, and final awards will be announced in Fall 2026. All submissions must be made through the online SCBGP application portal, and assistance is available through the program contact.

Applicants should clearly align with one funding and one focus area; use USDA outcome measures; avoid unallowable costs; include outreach plans and measurable impact.