The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) will distribute more than $796,000 over the next three years to expand access to fresh, locally grown produce and boost the competitiveness of the state’s specialty crop industry. This funding is made possible through the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
An application for grant funding will be available this week on the Illinois Department of Agriculture website and must be returned to the Department by noon on June 5, 2026. The program will run from September 30, 2026 through September 29, 2029.
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, local and government entities, trade and commodity associations, public and private colleges/universities. Illinois funding priorities include projects that benefit beginning farmers and first-time specialty crop producers (a beginning farmer is an individual or entity that has not operated a farm or ranch for more than 10 years and substantially participates in the operation), projects with educational programming to enhance knowledge and consumption of specialty crops, projects connecting specialty crops with nutrition and health outcomes, including food safety, projects that prioritize sustainability and conservation.
“These grant funds help ensure that Illinois producers—especially small, beginning, and historically underserved farmers—have the opportunity to grow and succeed,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. “Our goal is to strengthen local food systems, expand access to fresh, healthy products, and drive innovation in Illinois’ specialty crop industry.”
Source : illinois.gov