Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig recently announced the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is accepting applications for the 2021 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. To qualify, the grants must be used to support projects that raise awareness about and increase demand for specialty crops grown in Iowa.

"Specialty crop block grants are a win-win for producers, distributors and consumers," said Naig. "The programs they support help strengthen local distribution channels, which gives specialty crop producers more markets to sell their products, and they make it easier for consumers to buy protein and produce grown right here in Iowa."

Eligible specialty crops include both fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.

How to apply successfully

Successful grant applications should explain how projects will improve specialty crop production by increasing marketing and promotions, and research and development; expanding availability and access to specialty crops; and addressing local, regional and national challenges confronting specialty crop producers. All projects must have an educational component. Preference will be given to projects that have the potential to significantly expand, enhance and improve production and demand.

Iowa agencies, universities, institutions, producers, industry associations and community-based organizations are eligible to apply. Single organizations, institutions and individuals are encouraged to participate as project partners. Grant applications for projects that directly benefit a particular product or generate a profit for a single organization, institution or individual will not be awarded.

Awardees may receive up to $24,000 and projects can have a duration of up to 30 months.

Proposals must be received by the Iowa Department of Agriculture on or before 4 p.m. March 11. For more information, visit the Specialty Crop Block Grant program website.

The department is establishing a review committee to help evaluate and make recommendations on the submitted grant proposals. Those interested in participating in the review committee should be knowledgeable about specialty crops, or have grant writing or management experience, and be able to devote the time to complete the review process. Additional information about reviewer responsibilities, meeting dates and an application form can also be found at iowaagriculture.gov. Applications to participate in the review committee are due by 4 p.m. Feb. 11.

Source: Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, which is responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and its subsidiaries aren't responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.