Eligible Iowa producers are encouraged to apply for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

The program is designed to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Iowa by increasing demand, yields, or awareness. Products must enhance the competitiveness of Iowa-grown specialty crops that benefit the industry as a whole, and not a particular product or single organization, institution, or individual. Eligible crops include fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, as well as horticulture and nursery crops. 

The maximum amount of a sub-award is $30,000. In 2025, 12 Iowa projects were funded through the program. Grant proposals for this year must be received by the Iowa Department of Agriculture by 4 p.m. on March 4th. 

For more information, click here.