USDA Announces Increased Grants for Specialty Crop Programs

During a visit to the Michigan State University Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins revealed significant funding boosts for several USDA programs. The Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) will now receive $175 million per year, a substantial increase from the previous $80 million. This change comes as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

Additionally, the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) and the Specialty Crop Multi-State Program (SCMP) will see their funding rise from $85 million to $100 million annually starting in fiscal year 2026. These enhancements are designed to support American specialty crop producers at a time when consumer demand for nutritious foods is growing.

Rollins emphasized the importance of these investments, stating that they represent the largest commitment to American agriculture under the Working Families Tax Cuts. She acknowledged the role of congressional members like Rep. Tom Barrett in supporting these initiatives, which aim to equip farmers with necessary resources.

The announcement was made during a roundtable discussion with local farmers and a subsequent press conference, highlighting the USDA's commitment to aiding specialty crop producers while aligning with new dietary guidelines for Americans.