TN Specialty Crop Block Grants (SCBG)

The Tennessee Specialty Crop Block Grants (SCBG) aim to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture supports projects that positively impact local agriculture, focusing on innovative solutions that benefit multiple producers. Key outcomes include increasing consumer purchasing, expanding production access, and enhancing food safety. Eligible applicants include universities and community organizations, while start-ups are not funded.

The purpose of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture).”
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture seeks to identify and support projects that are forward thinking with a positive, long lasting impact on Tennessee Agriculture.
Tennessee's Funding Priorities
Projects with potential impact on the greatest number of Specialty Crop producers
Projects that are innovative and can be used as a teaching/research tool for other Specialty Crop growers
Projects that provide a learning foundation for future generation of Specialty Crop growers
Projects that expand markets for new and existing Specialty Crop growers.
Outcome Measures
Outcome 1: Increasing Consumption and Consumer Purchasing of Specialty Crops
Outcome 2: Increasing Access to Specialty Crops and Expanding Specialty Crop Production and DistributionOutcome 3: Increase Food Safety Knowledge and Processes
Outcome 6: Expand Specialty Crop Research and Development
Outcome 7: Improve Environmental Sustainability of Specialty Crops

Eligibility

Universities, institutions, cooperatives, producers, industry or community-based organizations may submit a proposal for funding.Projects must show a benefit to the specialty crop industry.Projects must directly impact multiple Tennessee producers.

Ineligibility

This program is not designed for start-ups or projects that only benefit one operation.