The Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) administers the Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG) Program to enhance the competitiveness and marketability of specialty crops in the state. These grants are designed to support a wide range of stakeholders involved in the specialty crop industry, including state and local organizations, government entities, producer associations, academia, and community-based organizations. Eligible applicants may apply either individually or as part of collaborative initiatives, aiming to bring innovative and impactful projects to the forefront of Montana’s agricultural sector.
Specialty crops are defined under this program as fruits, vegetables, peas, lentils, horticulture, and nursery crops. A detailed list of eligible crops is available via MDA’s resources. The primary goal of the program is to support projects that deliver broad benefit to the specialty crop industry, avoiding exclusive benefit to individual entities or commercial products. Projects that enhance food safety, promote nutrition, improve distribution efficiency, foster sustainability, and support research or pest and disease management are encouraged.
The 2026 funding opportunity anticipates a total funding pool of approximately $2,700,000. While the exact number of awards is not stated, each application must request at least $25,000, with no upper limit specified. Funded projects must have a performance period beginning no earlier than September 30, 2026, and must be completed by September 29, 2029. The funding opportunity is not recurring and is expected to be a one-time application window for 2026.
To apply, interested parties must register through the Montana Webgrants system at funding.mt.gov. Applications are due by 5:00 PM on February 27, 2026. It is strongly recommended that applicants submit their materials early to avoid technical difficulties. The application package includes an Applicant Self-Assessment, Cover Sheet, and a Project Profile Template. All documents must be submitted online through the Webgrants portal.
Evaluation of proposals will consider alignment with the program’s strategic priorities, including the enhancement of food safety, promotion of specialty crop consumption, advancement of research initiatives, and improvement in supply chain operations. The MDA explicitly excludes funding for projects designed to profit a single commercial entity or to unfairly compete with private businesses offering similar services.
For support or inquiries, applicants may contact Program Officer Caitlin Hortert at [email protected] or by phone at 406-444-3407. Additional technical assistance is available through SCBG Tech Calls, including an upcoming session on February 18, 2026. A detailed RFP and program guidelines are available on the MDA’s website.
