The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture recently opened the proposal period for the federal Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG) Program, which funds horticultural specialty crops projects that combat food system shortfalls caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service funds the program that will award nearly $1.4 million nationwide. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture administers the program for the state.
“These funds are a win-win for growers and consumers,” Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “Funded projects will assist growers in overcoming challenges associated with the coronavirus pandemic. And, they will connect consumers with specialty crops through expanded availability and access, further strengthening our food system.”
Qualifying projects address local, regional, and national challenges confronting specialty crop producers; assist producers with research and development relevant to specialty crops; leverage efforts to market and promote specialty crops; and expand availability and access to specialty crops.
Specialty crops include culinary herbs and spices, medicinal plants, tree nuts, dried fruits, nursery crops, fruits, and vegetables.
The solicitation process will be divided into two phases. Proposals are due July 30 through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development’s website. Projects that score highly will be invited to complete a final grant proposal to be submitted in September.