The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has awarded more than $1.2 million in 2019 USDA specialty crop block grants to 15 recipient organizations across Minnesota, according to a press release. The grant program aims to boost the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Minnesota through research, education or market development projects, such as development of new plant varieties, marketing campaigns and helping producers comply with food safety requirements.

“A more diverse agricultural sector is the key to returning farms to profitability as we strive to move past recent tough times for farming,” said MDA Assistant Commissioner Patrice Bailey. “The results of these grants will help inform future practices that may lead to greater success for Minnesota farmers.”

The MDA is planning to post the 2020 SCBG request for proposal on the SCBG website and start accepting applications in early January. Applicants may request between $10,000 and $100,000 and projects may last up to two and a half years. Application deadline will be in early March. Questions may be directed to Ann Kuzj at Ann.Kuzj@state.mn.us or the MDA grants line at 651-201-6500.