Ag Dept. Invites Grant Proposals for Horticultural Specialty Crops

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is accepting proposals for projects to increase the visibility and competitiveness of the state’s horticultural specialty crops including fruit, vegetable, nursery, flower, and nut products. Proposals, due Jan. 28, 2022, are for the federal Specialty Crop Block Grant program, which is administered by the state.

Proposals are the first step in a two-part competitive process for the federal Specialty Crop Block Grants authorized under the federal Farm Bill. Commodities that meet the definition of specialty crops include horticultural products such as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, culinary herbs and spices, medicinal plants and nursery crops.

Among the organizations approved for the 2021 projects were Penn State Extension and Penn State University.

Applicants for 2022 grants must submit a full proposal for projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through nutrition education, technology and trade innovation, conservation, pest and disease management research, food safety or food security enhancement, good handling practices, or organic and sustainable practices.

Requests may be made for a minimum of $20,000, provided the amount reasonably represents the cost of the intended project. Each project must have measurable outcomes demonstrating how it benefits the specialty crop or consumers, rather than a single organization, institution or individual.

Full proposals must be received by 4:59 p.m. on Jan. 28, 2022. Applications can be submitted to the PA Department of Community and Economic Development’s Electronic Single Application for Assistance at esa.dced.state.pa.us.