DES MOINES, Iowa (Feb. 19, 2026) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is now accepting applications for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The program is intended to support projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Iowa by increasing demand, improving yields, or boosting awareness across the state.
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is funded through the Farm Bill and administered by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service, which provides funding to each state to sub-award to eligible applicants. In Iowa, funded projects must enhance the competitiveness of Iowa-grown specialty crops in ways that benefit the broader industry. Eligible specialty crops include fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, and floriculture. Livestock and poultry are not classified as specialty crops under the program.
“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 Secretary 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. The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is another important tool that can help strengthen our specialty crop industry, support innovation, and increase the availability of Iowa products. I encourage eligible organizations to bring forward strong proposals that build demand and help more Iowans enjoy foods, beverages, and ag products grown right here in Iowa.”
Individual sub-awards may total up to $30,000. Eligible applicants include Iowa agencies, universities, institutions, producers, industry associations, and community-based organizations. Single organizations, institutions, and individuals are encouraged to collaborate as project partners. Applicants must reside in Iowa and/or conduct business or organizational activities within the state and must be in good standing.
Grant proposals must be submitted to the department by 4:00 p.m. on March 27, 2026. Additional details, including application materials and full program guidelines, are available on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program webpage.
In addition, the department is forming a review committee to evaluate submitted proposals and make funding recommendations. Individuals interested in serving on the committee should have knowledge of specialty crops and/or experience in grant writing or grant management and be able to dedicate time to the review process. Information about reviewer responsibilities and an application form is available on the department’s website.
