Specialty Crop Block Grants Awarded Across Tennessee this Fall
Oct 20, 2025
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is investing more than half a million dollars in projects aimed at strengthening the state’s specialty crop industry.
Through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), the department awarded $567,424 to 11 projects focused on research, marketing, and education that will help farmers and producers expand markets and improve production.
“Tennessee’s specialty crops, from strawberries and hops to lavender and mushrooms, are vital to our economy, our communities, and our way of life,” said Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt. “We are proud to support innovative projects that address today’s challenges and open new opportunities for our farmers and agribusinesses.”
Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, horticultural plants, and nursery products such as flowers and shrubs. The SCBGP is administered by TDA’s Business Development Division and funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
This year’s funding supports a mix of research, marketing, and outreach efforts across the state.
Here are the recipients:
Altogether, the 11 projects include nine research initiatives, one education and outreach effort, and one marketing project, each designed to boost the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of Tennessee’s specialty crop sector.
More information about the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program and other agricultural business opportunities can be found at www.tn.gov/agriculture/businesses/business-development.html.
Through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), the department awarded $567,424 to 11 projects focused on research, marketing, and education that will help farmers and producers expand markets and improve production.
“Tennessee’s specialty crops, from strawberries and hops to lavender and mushrooms, are vital to our economy, our communities, and our way of life,” said Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt. “We are proud to support innovative projects that address today’s challenges and open new opportunities for our farmers and agribusinesses.”
Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, horticultural plants, and nursery products such as flowers and shrubs. The SCBGP is administered by TDA’s Business Development Division and funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
This year’s funding supports a mix of research, marketing, and outreach efforts across the state.
Here are the recipients:
- Serenity Springs Lavender Farm will host a Northeast Tennessee Farm Trail Weekend to promote lavender farming and agritourism.
- Tennessee State University researchers will explore pest and crop management strategies for cucurbits, shiitake mushrooms, woody crops, and Japanese beetle control, as well as apply artificial intelligence to precision agriculture.
- University of Memphis scientists will use aerial technology to detect fruit orchard diseases earlier, particularly in West Tennessee.
- University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture will tackle the spotted lanternfly threat, expand hop and strawberry production, and develop a mobile-friendly version of the Southeastern Vegetable Crop Handbook.
Altogether, the 11 projects include nine research initiatives, one education and outreach effort, and one marketing project, each designed to boost the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of Tennessee’s specialty crop sector.
More information about the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program and other agricultural business opportunities can be found at www.tn.gov/agriculture/businesses/business-development.html.