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The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). This annual grant opportunity is funded by the USDA and administered through a competitive state-level process. Eligible Michigan entities can apply for grants of up to $125,000 to support projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.

What is the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program?

The SCBGP is a federal grant program managed by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and distributed through state departments of agriculture. The program funds projects that strengthen the market position and performance of specialty crops which include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery crops, and floriculture.

Each state receives a share of USDA funding and is responsible for setting its own priorities and application process. MDARD uses its allocation to support Michigan-based projects through a competitive application process.

What is the purpose of the MDARD Specialty Crop Block Grant?

MDARD’s SCBGP aims to enhance the competitiveness of Michigan-grown specialty crops by supporting projects in areas such as:

• Marketing and promotion
• Research and innovation
• Education and training
• Food safety
• Environmental sustainability
• Access and availability of specialty crops

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include Michigan-based entities such as:

• Nonprofits
• For-profit businesses
• Local governments
• Tribal governments
• Educational institutions
• Other qualifying organizations

Applicants must focus on projects that benefit more than one individual, business, or organization within Michigan’s specialty crop industry.

What are the requirements to apply?

Proposals that align with MDARD’s funding priorities with a maximum funding request of $125,000 per project must be submitted via the MiAgGrants system. Applicants must apply using either a Citizen Account, individuals using State of Michigan online services for their own personal transactions; or a Business Account for individuals using State of Michigan online services on behalf of a business, organization, or corporation.

Final awards are contingent on USDA’s approval of federal SCBGP funding.

What project activities are eligible for grant funding?

MDARD will prioritize projects aligned with the following focus areas:

• Market enhancement and promotion
• Market expansion and access
• Farm to institution supply chains
• Nutritional education
• Specialty crop research and development
• Pest and plant health management
• Regenerative agriculture practices
• Education and training for producers
• Food safety improvements
• Environmental sustainability and conservation
• Child and adult nutrition
• Labor and workforce development

What are allowable costs?

Allowable costs typically include expenses such as personnel and staffing costs; travel related to project activities; supplies and materials; outreach and marketing expenses; and consultant and contractual services. Note that costs must be directly tied to the project scope and follow both MDARD and USDA guidelines.

What is the funding availability for this program?

Each eligible applicant can apply for up to $125,000 per project. Total funding available will depend on Michigan’s allocation from USDA for the 2026 SCBGP, which will be finalized upon federal approval.

What is the grant timeline?

This program is currently open for applications which will be due on February 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET at the MiAgGrants platform. The award timeline is TBD and contingent on USDA approval.

The 2026 SCBGP Guidelines can be found here.

For more information on this grant or how to apply with Morrison’s assistance, please contact the Morrison Grants Team by email at grants@morrisonco.net or call us at 530-893-4764.

Image by Melissa Belanger, courtesy of Unsplash.