MT Dept. Of Agriculture Requesting Specialty Crop Block Grant Applications

Helena, MT - The Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now accepting applications for an estimated $3 million in federal funding available through the Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG) program.

The purpose of the SCBG program is to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Montana. Specialty crops include fruits and vegetables, peas, and lentils, dried fruits, as well as horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. State and/or local organizations, government entities, producer associations, academia, community-based organizations, nonprofit organizations, and other specialty crop stakeholders are eligible to apply either as single entities or in combined efforts.

Eligible projects include research, education, developing new and improved varieties, improving the capacity of the distribution chain, enhancing food safety, pest and disease control, improving efficiency and sustainability. For a complete list of guidelines and eligibility requirements, visit https://agr.mt.gov/Portals/ 168/Documents/GrantsandLoans/SCBG/2021%20SCBG%20Grant%20Proposal%20Manual.pdf?ver=2019-12-17-150106-377.

Grant proposals are due to the Montana Department of Agriculture by 2 p.m. Feb. 19. Technical assistance calls will be held on Jan. 30 and Feb. 18. For more information, visit agr.mt.gov/SpecialtyCropGrantProgram or contact Grace Aklestad, Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Manager, 406-444-3407 or email [email protected].

The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov.