Connecticut Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

The Connecticut Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through innovative projects. With over $6.8 million allocated to support 65 projects, the program encourages applications that address industry needs, including new priority areas focused on diversity and inclusion. Eligible specialty crops range from fruits and vegetables to honey and processed foods made from at least 50% specialty ingredients. This initiative plays a crucial role in strengthening Connecticut's agricultural sector.

Grant Description
Specialty crops are integral to Connecticut’s agricultural sector and since the inception of the program we have provided more than $6.8 million in funding to support 65 projects benefitting a wide array of specialty crop producers,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “Earlier this year we requested public comment on the funding priorities to ensure we are continuing to solicit projects addressing the needs of the industry. We are pleased to be incorporating three new priority areas this year which directly address recommendations from the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Agriculture working group report which was released in 2023. We encourage eligible applicants to submit innovative projects with measurable outcomes to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.”
The purpose of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is to solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in local, domestic, and foreign markets. Specialty crops are defined as any fruit or vegetable, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture. Also included is honey, maple syrup, Christmas trees, and processed foods/food products which are made of at least 50% specialty crops (excluding added water). An eligible plant must be intensively cultivated and used by people for food, medicinal purposes, and/or aesthetic gratification to be considered a specialty crop.