Grants are available to help fund projects that encourage the production of specialty crops. The Indiana State Department of Agriculture is now accepting grant proposals for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
More than $380,000 in federal money is expected to be available through the program, which is run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A variety of organizations are eligible to apply for the funding, including producers, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and governments.
According to the ISDA, projects should enhance the competitiveness of Indiana’s specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops. The crops that would benefit from the projects must be plants used for food, medicine, or “aesthetic gratification.” The ISDA says some of the ideas for projects include those that develop local and regional food systems, increase access to food in under-served communities, or enhance food safety.
More information and a link to the application can be found on the ISDA website. Grant proposals are due by June 6 at 5 p.m. Eastern.
