Ohio Specialty Crop Producer Block Grant

Grant funding is provided by the USDA Agriculture Marketing Service. Grants range from a minimum of $25,000 to a maximum of $150,000. In addition, all applicants must provide a minimum match of 25 percent of the requested grant amount.

Project proposals are sought that will advance the long-term economic viability of the state’s specialty crop industry, while increasing the marketability of specialty crops. Higher rankings will be given to projects that demonstrate profit potential for growers and that could boost employment opportunities in the specialty crop industry.

Food and agricultural non-profit organizations, associations or commodity groups, universities and research institutions are eligible to submit specialty crop proposals. Projects that have a focus on the benefit a particular commercial product, or provide a profit to a single organization, institution or individual will not be considered.

There are several parts to this year’s application. We highly recommend you fully read the RFP before preparing your application:

1. Organization and Grant Applicant Contact Information Form

2. An application “Project Profile Template” 

3. A PDF of appendices which should include:

   1. A budget outline of your 25% match.

   2. Three letters of support for your project.

   3. Current résumés for each individual working on the project.

   4. Copy of IRS 501(c)3 determination.

Return the application with all above attachments to SCBG@AGRI.OHIO.GOV by 5pm ET March 24th, 2023.

• 2023 RFP & Performance Measures

• Full list of USDA approved Specialty Crops

• Evaluation Plan (Performance Measures) (pdf)

• SCBGP Templates and Performance Measures Q&A (pdf)