More federal grants support research marketing and innovation in specialty crops
The United States Department of Agriculture has announced more than 275 million dollars in grant funding for the specialty crop industry for fiscal year 2026. The funding aims to improve research, education, marketing, and innovation for farmers across the country who grow fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery plants, and other specialty crops.
This funding will be distributed through three major programs. These include the Specialty Crop Research Initiative, the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, and the Specialty Crop Multi State Program. Together, these programs are designed to help farmers overcome challenges and stay competitive in a changing agricultural environment.
“The Working Families Tax Cuts provided the largest investment in American agriculture, including boosting support for America’s specialty crop producers,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins.
“At a time when more Americans are demanding whole, nutritious foods aligned with the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, at USDA we are ensuring the farmers who grow these foods have the tools necessary to continue their operations,” said Rollins.
“It’s thanks to members of Congress like Tom Barret that Michigan specialty crop producers and those around the country will be able to use these boosted investments,” said Rollins.
A major share of the funding comes from expanded support through recent tax legislation. Annual funding for the Specialty Crop Research Initiative has increased to 175 million dollars, more than double previous levels. The Block Grant and Multi State Programs will now receive a combined 100 million dollars per year starting in fiscal year 2026.
The research initiative supports projects that address key industry needs such as pest management, climate challenges, sustainability, and food safety. For the first time, special funding has been reserved to develop mechanization and automation technologies. These tools can help farmers reduce labor costs and improve efficiency.
“I was proud to deliver tax relief and real investments for Michigan agriculture in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, including in research, education, and marketing for our state’s many specialty crops,” said Congressman Tom Barrett.
“I’m grateful to Secretary Rollins for launching the next round of funding here in Michigan, where our farmers produce more than 300 agricultural commodities, and our scientists lead the way in agricultural research. These investments will ensure Michigan farms stay on the cutting edge as they grow crops to feed America and the world,” said Barrett.
The Block Grant Program provides funds to states and territories based on specialty crop production and acreage. The Multi State Program supports projects that involve collaboration across state lines and includes universities, nonprofits, and tribal organizations.
Earlier this year, USDA also announced an additional one billion dollars in assistance for specialty crop farmers through another federal support program. These combined efforts highlight a strong commitment to strengthening the specialty crop sector and ensuring farmers have the resources needed to meet growing consumer demand for healthy foods.
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