The 2025 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), administered by the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA), invites competitive applications to enhance the competitiveness of Nevada's specialty crops. This program, funded through the USDA, supports initiatives such as marketing, research, education, and food safety to benefit multiple stakeholders. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and nursery crops, as defined by the USDA. Projects funded under SCBGP must benefit the broader industry rather than individual entities.

Funding for the program is expected to total approximately $267,239, with individual project awards varying based on the number of qualifying applications. Projects may last up to three years, starting on October 1, 2025, and concluding no later than September 29, 2028. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, tribal organizations, disadvantaged farmers, agricultural associations, community-based organizations, individual producers (not benefiting solely their business), and academic institutions. Entities must comply with federal regulations and be free of debarment or suspension to qualify.

Applicants must submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) by December 16, 2024, outlining the project’s objectives, benefits, and budget. LOIs will be reviewed for eligibility, and only selected applicants will be invited to submit full applications by February 3, 2025, using the designated Adobe PDF template. Incomplete applications or those deviating from the required format will not be considered. Evaluation criteria include alignment with program priorities, potential impact, and feasibility.

Projects should focus on advancing specialty crops through activities such as developing sustainable practices, addressing pest and disease challenges, increasing access and consumption, and improving food safety. Certain uses, like business expansion or promoting individual brands, are ineligible. Funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis, with no advances offered. Applicants must provide detailed budgets and adhere to cost principles outlined in federal guidelines.

Reporting requirements include annual performance updates and a final report within 30 days of project completion. The NDA reserves the right to withhold funds for non-compliance with grant terms, including timely reporting and adherence to approved budgets. Monitoring and site inspections will ensure project goals align with grant objectives.

The program emphasizes transparency, requiring acknowledgment of federal funding in publications or events related to the project. Successful applicants must complete all grant activities within the designated timeline and meet all reporting and documentation requirements to ensure continued eligibility for future funding opportunities.