New York Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBG) (SCBG)

The USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBG) is a competitive grant initiative administered in New York State by the New York Farm Viability Institute (NYFVI) in partnership with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. It leverages federal USDA funding to support research, education, and innovation that enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of specialty crops across New York State. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, nursery crops, and related products. The program prioritizes projects that address production challenges, improve pest and disease management, expand research and development, and strengthen environmental sustainability for specialty crop growers statewide.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit entities, educational institutions, local governments, and other qualified organizations undertaking work that supports specialty crop competitiveness and long-term viability in New York. Individual farmers are not direct applicants; projects must deliver measurable benefits to the specialty crop industry broadly. NYFVI manages the competitive process on behalf of the State, working with the State's Specialty Crop Advisory Group to set funding priorities.

Grant awards typically range from $50,000 to $200,000, with project durations of up to eight quarters (two years).

NYFVI manages a competitive application process on behalf of New York State. Proposals are evaluated on their potential to deliver measurable benefits to the specialty crop industry through practical research, education, and innovation. Consult NYFVI's application resources for the current round's priorities and deadlines.