Alaskans can apply for United States Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grants of up to $60,000 to support specialty crops in the state under a federal program administered by the Alaska Division of Agriculture.
The grants are available in two categories, with smaller grants targeting entry-level or investigative projects, and larger grants aimed at more evidence-based research projects or those building on previous projects with strong industry support.
Grant applicants must provide a letter of intent to the Division of Agriculture by 5 p.m. on Feb. 10, 2023. The request for proposals, including application and deadline information, is at: https://dnr.alaska.gov/ag/Grants/2023%20SCBG%20Request%20for%20Proposal_Fillable.pdf
A public meeting to answer questions from potential applicants is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023, from 1-2 pm via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/96896936295?pwd=ZlV5OGYvMU83OFZ6NjFWL1dwUHQ4UT09, meeting ID 968 9693 6295 passcode SCBG23; or by calling 1-669-444-9171 in the US.
The grant program seeks to enhance the competitiveness of Alaska Grown specialty crops, sustain farmers’ livelihoods, and strengthen local communities. Only projects related to specialty crops are allowed under this funding source. Potential recipients might include universities, extension services, soil and water conservation districts, or schools working in cooperation with a business or non-profit.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines specialty crops as fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits and horticulture and nursery crops. Many Alaska Grown products – including livestock, dairy, fuel/feed grains, hay, and aquaculture – are excluded from the grant program, due to USDA restrictions. List of USDA-eligible specialty crops: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp/specialty-crop
The Department of Natural Resources’ mission is to develop, conserve, and maximize the use of Alaska’s natural resources consistent with the public interest.
