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Indiana Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Industry-Specific · Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) · IN
The Indiana Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is a state grant from the Indiana State Department of Agriculture that funds marketing, research, and market-access projects for Indiana's specialty crop businesses, nonprofits, governments, and universities — individuals applying alone don't qualify, and the 2026 cycle had about $410,000 available.
The Indiana Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is a state-administered grant funded and overseen by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). It provides competitive project grants aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of Indiana's specialty crops — fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops. Funded projects can focus on marketing efforts, research, and expanding access to specialty crop markets.
For the 2026 funding cycle, the total state pool available was roughly $410,000, distributed across multiple competitive awards rather than as a single fixed grant amount. This is a grant, meaning funds do not need to be repaid, though recipients are expected to use the money for the specific project outlined in their application and typically must report on outcomes.
This program matters to small business owners in Indiana's specialty crop sector because it offers non-dilutive funding for projects that might otherwise be difficult to finance — things like market research, promotional campaigns, or improving access to new sales channels. Eligible applicants include Indiana for-profit businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and universities, but individuals applying on their own are not eligible.
Because this is a competitive, cyclical grant program, the exact deadline, available funding amount, and specific eligibility details can change from year to year. Applicants should check the official ISDA site for the current round's open dates, application requirements, and funding availability before applying. This description reflects the 2026 cycle facts as provided; always confirm the latest details directly with ISDA.
Who qualifies
How to apply
Questions people ask
Is this a grant or a loan?
It is a grant, administered by ISDA, so funds do not need to be repaid.
Who is eligible to apply?
Indiana for-profit businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and universities with specialty crop projects; individuals applying alone are not eligible.
How much funding is available?
The 2026 cycle had roughly $410,000 available across the state pool, awarded competitively — confirm the current amount at the official source.
Is there a minimum or maximum award amount?
Specific award floors and ceilings are not stated in the available information; confirm at the official source.
What is the deadline to apply?
The deadline is not fixed here — check current rounds on the ISDA website.
Where do I apply?
Apply through the ISDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program page at https://www.in.gov/isda/grants-and-funding-opportunities/specialty-crop-block-grant/.
Who administers this program?
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) administers the program.
What kinds of projects does it fund?
Projects that enhance the competitiveness of Indiana specialty crops through marketing, research, or expanded market access.
Is this only for Indiana businesses?
Yes, eligibility is limited to Indiana-based applicants (IN).
Can an individual farmer apply on their own?
No, individuals acting alone are not eligible; applicants must be a business, nonprofit, government entity, or university.
Is the award amount taxable?
This is not specified in the available information; confirm at the official source or with a tax professional.
Is this a one-time grant or recurring program?
It operates in funding cycles or rounds, with amounts and availability varying by year.
Do I need to report on how funds are used?
Reporting requirements are not detailed here; confirm expectations at the official source.
Opportunity number: not published. Source: curated + verified (official state source, 2026). GetFundedUSA is independent and not affiliated with Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA); always confirm current deadlines, amounts and eligibility on the sponsor's own page before applying.