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Specialty crop grant application workshop RSVP due March 26

March 22, 2021

The Delaware Department of Agriculture is now accepting proposals for anticipated funding through the specialty crop block grant program.

DDA anticipates more than $344,000 to be allocated to increase the competitiveness of Delaware-grown specialty crops. Applications will be accepted through 4:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 20.

The program is funded through the federal Farm Bill. It covers products including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, nursery crops and floriculture. Projects should benefit the specialty crop industry as a whole and provide a positive impact with measurable outcomes. Grants are available in amounts between $5,000 and $50,000 for projects that may last between one and three years.

Applications should be submitted by agricultural producers, nonprofit organizations, government entities, for-profit companies or educational institutions based in Delaware or with a business or educational affiliation based in the state. Funding cannot be used for field crops such as corn and soybeans or animal agriculture.

DDA will offer a virtual grant workshop at 10 a.m., Tuesday, March 30. People interested in learning how to apply the grant's eligibility requirements and priorities should RSVP by Friday, March 26, to Ese.Jessa@delaware.gov.

Past Delaware projects have included research on improving commercial broccoli production, expanding community-supported agriculture programs, research on growing persimmons, and marketing to promote locally grown specialty crops.

The grant evaluation team will review submissions, and selected projects will be included in the Delaware State Plan for USDA review and approval.

For more information or an application, go to de.gov/scbg.

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