The Kansas Department of Agriculture is expecting to receive $327,000 from the United State Department of Agriculture to fund projects that will enhance the competitiveness of the Kansas specialty crop industry.

Specialty crop education is a natural fit for schools, said Barb Depew, Farm to Plate project director for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE). Schools can partner with specialty crop producers to host field trips so students can see where their food is grown; learn about fruits and vegetables; or learn how to plant an educational garden for their district. Districts also can purchase specialty crops for cooking classes.

Applicants can receive up to $75,000 through the 2023 Specialty Crop Block Grant for a specific project, with preference given to projects that are one year in duration. Matching funds aren’t required.

Applicants for grant funds should know how the project potentially impacts and produces measurable outcomes for the specialty crop industry and/or the public rather than a single organization, institution or individual.

More information about the program, including the request for applications (RFA), can be found at https://agriculture.ks.gov/kda-services/grants-and-cost-share-programs/specialty-crop-block-grant.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. March 15.