Department Now Accepting Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Applications

Grant Applications Due by Wednesday, April 1

ANNAPOLIS, MD  – The Maryland Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), established by the Farm Bill, that offers funds to projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.

The department anticipates that approximately $430,000 will be available in SCBGP funds. Of those available funds, Food Safety, Market Enhancement, and Research will be a priority for projects with a minimum level of $15,000. Proposals that can produce the highest degree of measurable benefits to Maryland specialty crop producers in relation to each dollar spent and that receive support from specialty crop producers, will be prioritized. Grants will be reimbursement funds.

The department is seeking applications from eligible non-profit organizations, government entities, for-profit companies, and other organizations for projects that aim to promote or enhance the production of and access to Maryland specialty crops. Specialty crops are defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops.

Applicants must be Maryland residents or their business or educational affiliation must be in Maryland. Grant applications must be completed and submitted via email to Karen Fedor at karen.fedor@maryland.gov by Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at 3 p.m.

For questions about the grant application process or to apply, contact Karen Fedor at karen.fedor@maryland.gov or 410-841-5773. For more information about the grant program or to download the application, visit the department’s website.

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