Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is accepting proposals for $1 million in grants to increase the competitiveness of the state's horticultural specialty crops including fruit, nut, vegetable, nursery, honey, and floral products. Projects will be funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant program, which is administered by the state.
"Pennsylvania leads the nation in floriculture, mushrooms, and other specialty crops," said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. "These grants feed Pennsylvania grower profits by increasing product quality and consumer demand; protecting crops from severe weather, pests and disease; and helping growers recruit, train, and retain the workers they need to stay national leaders."
Commodities that meet the USDA's definition of specialty crops include horticultural products such as fruit, vegetables, tree nuts, herbs, spices, and flowers.
In September 2023, the USDA awarded $1 million through the program to 11 Pennsylvania projects focused on research, education, and sustainability.
Applicants must submit a full proposal for projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through technology and trade innovation, nutrition education, conservation, pest and disease management research, food safety or food security enhancement, good handling practices, or organic and sustainable practices.
Requests may be made for a minimum of $20,000, provided the amount reasonably represents the cost of the intended project. Each project must have measurable outcomes demonstrating how it benefits the specialty crop or consumers, rather than a single organization, institution or individual. Single organizations, institutions and individuals are encouraged to participate as project partners.
Proposals must be received by 5:00 p.m. December 1, 2023. Applications can be submitted to the PA Department of Community and Economic Development's Electronic Single Application for Assistance at esa.dced.state.pa.us.
Application guidelines can be found in the October 28 edition of the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Eligibility, application timelines and detailed instructions can be found at agriculture.pa.gov.
Media Contact: Shannon Powers – 717.603.2056, shpowers@pa.gov
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