(HARTFORD, CT) – Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) announced today that it will accept applications for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program until 4:00 pm. EST on Monday, March 16, 2026. CT DoAg encourages prospective applicants to attend an informational webinar on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. EST.
“State investments made possible through federal funding are vital to strengthening our agricultural economy and supporting the diverse specialty crop growers who feed our communities,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “We encourage all eligible organizations to apply for these resources, which help growers innovate, expand markets, and address emerging pest and disease threats, while continuing to meet consumer demand.”
CT DoAg leverages USDA funds to award Specialty Crop Block Grants to eligible Connecticut entities annually through a competitive process. Such entities may apply for a maximum of $100,000 for research, marketing, training, and education proposals which benefit more than one specialty crop business, individual, or organization.
The following funding priorities have been identified for 2026 through an online feedback form with input from statewide specialty crop stakeholders. The program’s funding priorities are:
- Research, Innovation, and Knowledge Transfer
- Market Development and Consumer Engagement
- Specialty Crop Producer Education, Development, and Networks
- Integrated Technical Assistance and Capacity Building for Ag Viability
- Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance
CT DoAg’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program awards funds to enhance the competitiveness of the state’s specialty crops, including fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, herbs and spices, medicinal plants, honey, hops, maple syrup, mushrooms, nursery crops (including Christmas trees), and floriculture.
Those interested in applying for the grant program should visit the Specialty Crop Block program website for additional details. All applications must be submitted online. Grant awards are contingent upon USDA’s approval of federal funding.
For more information on this and other grants, visit the CT DoAg grant website.
