The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) is accepting applications for its 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, with awards of up to $30,000 available for projects aimed at boosting the competitiveness of Iowa-grown specialty crops.
The program, funded through the federal Farm Bill and administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service, provides states with funding to distribute to eligible applicants.
A release stated qualifying projects must benefit the specialty crop industry broadly by increasing demand, yields or awareness of Iowa-grown products.
Eligible crops include fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, and floriculture. Livestock and poultry do not qualify under the program.
Iowa agencies, universities, institutions, producers, industry associations and community-based organizations may apply. Applicants must be Iowa residents or conduct business in the state and must be in good standing.
“The growth of Iowa’s specialty crop sector reflects what we’re hearing from consumers across the state. People want more locally grown fruits, vegetables, and horticulture products, and they want to know the farmers behind the food,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “Through the continued expansion of Choose Iowa, we’ve seen how powerful that connection can be when we elevate Iowa grown foods and beverages in the marketplace.”
He highlighted the program as another important tool which can boost the state’s specialty crop industry, support innovation and increase the availability of Iowa products.
Grant proposals must be submitted to IDALS by 4 p.m. on March 27. Application materials and full program details are available on the IDALS website.
The release noted IDALS is also forming a review committee to evaluate submitted proposals. The department is seeking individuals with knowledge of specialty crops or experience in grant writing and management, and reviewer application information is available on the IDALS website.
