Grant application deadline is February 28
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced that $270,000 in Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) funds are available for projects that enhance the competitiveness of local specialty crops that are vital to Rhode Islanders’ health and well-being. Specialty crops are fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.
“When I’m at the grocery store or walking through my local farmers’ market, I’m drawn to fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, and nuts, the kinds of foods I rely on to eat healthy,” said DEM Director Terry Gray.
“I know many Rhode Islanders are looking for those same options,
along with local flowers. That’s why DEM is committed to promoting RI Grown crops by
helping local farmers and businesses become more competitive.”
Rhode Island’s USDA-funded SCBGP supports local crops by increasing consumer awareness and demand for RI Grown produce and plants. Since 2016, DEM has awarded more than $1 million through the program. There is no maximum grant award or matching requirement.
Applications are due Feb. 28, 2026. Learn more and apply at https://dem.ri.gov/agriculture/grants/specialty-crop.
Questions should be directed to DEM.SpecialtyCrop@dem.ri.gov or (401) 222-2781.
DEM also supports RI’s green economy by helping farmers and fishers grow their businesses, invest in infrastructure, and access incubation space. With more than 1,000 farms and the nation’s highest percentage of beginning farmers (2022 Census of Agriculture), Rhode Island’s agriculture continues to grow, strengthening the economy, environment, and local food system.
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farmers, fishers, and food producers.
