The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries is accepting applications for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, a competitive funding opportunity designed to strengthen the market position of U.S. specialty crops at home and abroad.

Applications must be submitted to ADAI by 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 26. The grants are administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“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.”

USDA defines specialty crops as fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, horticulture including maple syrup and honey and nursery crops including floriculture. The program aims to enhance the competitiveness of those crops by supporting research, marketing initiatives and other projects that expand demand and improve production.

Eligible applicants include commodity groups, agricultural organizations, colleges and universities, municipalities, state agencies and agricultural nonprofits. All proposals must meet program specifications to be considered.

Grant awards are determined through a competitive review process. An industry committee will evaluate applications and submit recommendations to USDA, which makes final funding decisions.

Awards start at $5,000. Commodity groups, agricultural organizations, municipalities and agricultural nonprofits may request up to $25,000. Colleges and universities may request up to $40,000.

Projects selected for funding may not begin until official agreements are signed, which is expected in October 2026.

For more information about the application process, contact Johnny Blackmon at johnny.blackmon@agi.alabama.gov or (334) 240-7257. Additional program details are available at https://agi.alabama.gov/divisions/executive/scbgp. USDA information about the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is available at www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp and will be updated with 2026 program details.