Commonwealth Specialty Crop Program

The Commonwealth Specialty Crop Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture as part of the broader PA Farm Bill initiative. The program is designed to complement, but not replace, the Federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program by targeting specialty crops that are either not eligible under the federal program or have been identified as high-priority by the Secretary. The funding supports projects that enhance the competitiveness of specific specialty crops such as hemp, honey, hardwood, hops, flax for fiber, and grains like barley, rye, and wheat when used for distilling, brewing, or malting. The program reflects a strategic effort by the Commonwealth to strengthen niche agricultural markets and supply chains within the state. The primary purpose of the grant is to fund projects that benefit the specialty crop industry as a whole rather than individual entities. Eligible project activities include research, marketing initiatives, seed certification, sustainability improvements, pest and disease control, and enhancements to distribution efficiency. The program also supports educational initiatives aimed at increasing consumption and awareness of specialty crops, as well as the development of improved agricultural practices and food safety measures. Funding may also be used to develop new crop varieties and support participation in international standard-setting activities relevant to specialty crops. The program operates as a reimbursement-based grant with a total funding pool of 460,000 dollars. Funds must be used strictly within the approved grant period and cannot be applied to expenses incurred before the grant agreement is executed or after June 30, 2029. While applicants may request specific funding amounts, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture reserves the right to award less than the requested amount. The program does not specify minimum or maximum award amounts per project, and funding is distributed on a competitive basis depending on the quality and impact of proposals. Eligibility requirements emphasize that funded projects must provide broad industry benefits rather than direct financial gain to a single organization or individual. A wide range of costs are considered eligible, including personnel salaries, travel, training, equipment rental, marketing activities, and professional services. However, numerous cost categories are explicitly prohibited, such as construction, land acquisition, promotional giveaways, lobbying, and activities that do not align with the program’s legislative purpose. These restrictions ensure that funds are used responsibly and in ways that advance the overall specialty crop sector. The application process is conducted through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Electronic Single Application system. The process includes two competitive phases. Phase I requires submission of a Full Proposal, which must be completed by the specified deadline. Projects that score highly during this phase are invited to submit a Final Grant Proposal in Phase II. The review process evaluates proposals based on their potential impact on the specialty crop industry and alignment with program goals. Final award decisions are made after both phases are completed. The timeline for the program begins with the release of the Full Proposal request, followed by a firm submission deadline in December. Selected applicants are invited to submit final proposals later that same month, and award announcements are made in January of the following year. Recipients are required to submit annual performance reports after each of the first two years and a final report within 90 days of the project’s completion. Any changes to the project scope, budget, or personnel must receive prior written approval from the administering agency. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact the program representative via phone or email provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

Ensure project benefits entire specialty crop industry rather than a single entity; align clearly with competitiveness goals; focus on measurable impact and allowable cost categories