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Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Overview
The purpose of the federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is to solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in either domestic or foreign markets. The SCBGP assists with improving the competitiveness of specialty crops by promoting, supporting research, and providing access to specialty crops. The SCBGP also helps address local, regional, and national challenges experienced by specialty crop producers. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines specialty crops as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture).”
How to Apply?
The SCBGP is part of the Farm Bill. The program is administered across the nation by state departments of agriculture. Individuals or non-federal entities who are interested in applying for the SCBGP may submit a specialty crop project proposal to their state department of agriculture. In New Mexico, applicants must submit their proposal for federal funding through the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA). Successful applicants execute the work plan and all other aspects of the grant proposal. NMDA administers the SCBGP’s federal funding by acting as the fiscal agent and monitors the progress of the accepted projects.
The deadline to submit project proposals to NMDA is February 14, 2024 by 5:00 p.m. MT.
In order for potential applicants to learn more information and gain a better understanding of the program, the following virtual outreach workshops will be held:
1
Request for Proposals
2
Proposals Reviewed by Evaluation Committee and NM Secretary of Agriculture
3
NMDA Notifies Applicants
4
Successful Applicants Complete Revised Proposals
5
NMDA Submits State Plan to USDA
6
Revisions / USDA-AMS Approval
7
Sub-Contracts Between Project Coordinators and NMSU / NMDA
Considerations
- Each project funded through the SCBGP must be completed within 3 years.
- Grant funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis only.
- Grant funds will not be awarded to projects that solely benefit a particular commercial product.
- Grant funds will not be awarded to projects that provide profit to a single organization, institution, or individual.
- Grant funds cannot be used for capital expenditures (equipment, buildings, and land).
Additional Information
Approved Accepted Full Proposals 2019-2022
For more information and/or questions about the SCBGP, please send an email to: