North Dakota Opens 2026 Specialty Crop Grants, Local Producers Urged to Apply

On December 8 the North Dakota Department of Agriculture formally opened the application period for the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The program funds projects that support specialty crops through research, pest and disease management, new seed and variety development, nutrition education and measurable conservation outcomes. The state noted that projects that primarily benefit a single commercial product or that are intended to generate private profit are not eligible for funding.

The announcement made clear that the state is still awaiting its allocation from the United States Department of Agriculture which will determine the final funding pool. Despite that pending allocation applicants were invited to prepare and submit proposals according to the timelines and submission procedures provided in the NDDA announcement. The notice included an email contact and a phone number and directed applicants to the NDDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program resources page for application forms, guidance and deadlines.

Local producers, farmer organizations and university or nonprofit researchers in Stutsman County stand to gain if successful competitive proposals secure funding. Projects focused on managing local pest and disease threats can reduce crop losses and protect access to interstate and export markets. Investments in seed and variety development can improve regional resilience in the face of changing climate and market demands. Nutrition education and conservation outcome projects can expand value added opportunities for local growers while advancing soil health and water quality goals that affect the county as a whole.

Because the program excludes proposals with the principal aim of private profit applicants will need to demonstrate clear public benefit and measurable outcomes. Organizations should also account for federal reporting and matching requirements when budgeting projects. Interested parties should consult the NDDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program resources page and use the email address and phone number listed in the announcement for specific deadlines, submission instructions and technical assistance. Applications submitted on time and aligned with program priorities will compete for the forthcoming USDA allocation.