2027 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is offering the 2027 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to fund projects that improve the competitiveness of California’s specialty crop sector in domestic and international markets. Grants range from $100,000 to $600,000 (conventional) or $75,000 to $250,000 (Additional Assistance) with a maximum performance period of 2 years 8 months (Nov 1 2027 – Jun 30 2030). Eligible applicants include businesses, nonprofits, public agencies, and tribal governments; individuals are excluded. No matching funds or letters of intent are required. Funding is federal‑sourced (USDA Farm Bill) and awarded via advances and reimbursements. Applications are submitted online; the deadline is 9/21/2026, and award announcements are expected in Fall 2027. • Grant amounts: $100‑$600K (standard) or $75‑$250K (Additional Assistance) • Performance period: 11/1/2027 – 6/30/2030 (max 2 y 8 m) • Eligible entities: businesses, nonprofits, public agencies, tribal governments • No cost‑share required; cost‑share optional and unscored • Funding source: Federal (USDA) with advances & reimbursements • Application deadline: 9/21/2026 (09:00 UTC) • Total available funding: $28 M (award count dependent)