MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is now accepting grant applications for projects that enhance the competitiveness of U.S. specialty crops in foreign and domestic markets. The application deadline for these specialty crop block grants through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. CST.

“As interest in locally grown food continues to rise, Alabama’s specialty crop industry is stronger than ever,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “Through this program, we’re investing in research that improves crop quality and yields while unlocking exciting new marketing opportunities for farmers. This program benefits our hardworking farmers and the consumers who enjoy fresh Alabama specialty crops.”

Specialty crops are defined by USDA as fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, horticulture (including maple syrup and honey) and nursery crops (including floriculture).

Only commodity groups, agricultural organizations, colleges and universities, municipalities, state agencies and agricultural nonprofits are eligible for this grant program, provided their proposals meet all the program specifications.

The selection of grants is based on a competitive process. A review committee of industry representatives will evaluate applications and submit recommendations to USDA. USDA issues final approval for submitted projects.

The minimum amount awarded is $5,000. The maximum award to commodity groups, agriculture organizations, municipalities and agriculture nonprofits applicants is $25,000; the maximum amount for colleges and universities is $40,000.

The deadline for specialty crop block grants to be submitted to ADAI is Thursday, March 26, 2026, 5:00 p.m. CST. Please contact Johnny Blackmon at johnny.blackmon@agi.alabama.gov  or 334-240-7257 if you have specific questions about the Specialty Crop Block Grant program.

Additional information about the 2026 program is available https://agi.alabama.gov/divisions/executive/scbgp. USDA also has an informational page https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp  that will be updated with 2026 program information soon.

Projects cannot begin until official agreements are signed, which is expected October 2026.