The Missouri Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for anticipated funding through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Individuals, community organizations and research institutions working to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Missouri need to submit their application by 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

“Producing specialty crops is becoming more popular each year in Missouri,” stated Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. “It’s great to see USDA funding specialty crops in our state. This grant allows specialty crop producers in both urban and rural settings to grow and enhance theiR operations.”

USDA defines specialty crops as fruits, vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, honey, horticulture and nursery crops including floriculture. The Department offers the grant program to expand markets on local, regional and international levels along with develop distribution channels for specialty crops and catalyze education, research, marketing, promotion, food safety strategies and crop specific solutions for pests and diseases.

The application form and additional details can be located at the Missouri Department of Agriculture website at Agriculture.Mo.Gov.