CT DoAG Specialty Crop Block Grant Opportunity- Applications due by March 16, 2026

Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) announced that it will accept applications for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program until 4:00 pm. EST on Monday, March 16, 2026. CT DoAg encourages prospective applicants to review the informational webinar recording now available online.

CT DoAg leverages USDA funds to award Specialty Crop Block Grants to eligible Connecticut entities annually through a competitive process. Such entities may apply for a maximum of $100,000 for research, marketing, training, and education proposals which benefit more than one specialty crop business, individual, or organization.

The following funding priorities have been identified for 2026 through an online feedback form with input from statewide specialty crop stakeholders. The program’s funding priorities are:

CT DoAg’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program awards funds to enhance the competitiveness of the state’s specialty crops, including fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, herbs and spices, medicinal plants, honey, hops, maple syrup, mushrooms, nursery crops (including Christmas trees), and floriculture.

Those interested in applying for the grant program should visit the Specialty Crop Block program website for additional details. All applications must be submitted online. Grant awards are contingent upon USDA’s approval of federal funding.

For more information on this and other grants, visit the CT DoAg grant website