IDOA to distribute nearly $525K in federal funding to fortify Illinois specialty crop industry
The 2024 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant program will enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and expand the availability of fresh, locally grown produce statewide
In an effort to support the state’s specialty crop industry, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) will distribute nearly $525,000 over a three-year period thanks to the 2024 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant program. Funding for this program was authorized by the 2018 Federal Farm Bill.
“We are happy to once again be partnered with Illinois on the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program,” said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. “The innovative projects funded through this program will strengthen U.S. specialty crop production and markets and ensure Americans have sustained access to fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other specialty crops and support the region’s specialty crop growers to help ensure their long-term success.”
Specialty Crop Block Grant funding is limited to non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and local governments.
“The 2024 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funds strengthen Illinois’ specialty crop industry,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. “These funds have been awarded to projects intended to expand the availability of fresh, locally grown produce in both rural and urban communities. We are especially excited about the opportunity to provide crop education to school-aged kids. Hands-on learning, particularly hands-in-the-soil learning, is incredibly impactful on the next generation.”
Projects were selected after a competitive review process with the Illinois Department of Agriculture and an external review committee composed of representatives from the specialty crop industry, research and economic development, and producers.
Illinois prioritized applications for educational outreach in socially disadvantaged communities and research projects through public schools and universities. Of the eight awardees, two were first-time recipients.
The grant funds will be distributed to the following eight projects:
Additional information about the program can be found on the Department’s website or by contacting [email protected].
