The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is now accepting applications for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says the program supports projects that enhance the competitiveness of Iowa-grown specialty crops by increasing demand, yields or awareness. Eligible crops include fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, and floriculture. Livestock and poultry are not eligible.
The program is funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service under the federal Farm Bill. In Iowa, projects must benefit the state’s specialty crop industry as a whole.
In a statement, Naig says growing consumer demand for locally grown products continues to strengthen Iowa’s specialty crop sector and encourages eligible organizations to submit proposals.
The maximum sub-award is $30,000. Iowa agencies, universities, producers, industry associations and community-based organizations may apply.
Applications must be submitted to IDALS by 4 p.m. on March 27, 2026. More information is available at iowaagriculture.gov.
