WASHINGTON, Jan. 29, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making significant investments to support the growth and expansion of the specialty crops industry. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced two major initiatives today that will provide a total of $137.9 million in funding to help the specialty crop sector increase global exports and reach new markets.
The first initiative, the Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) program, will provide $65 million in funding for projects that will specifically focus on increasing exports of specialty crops. This investment will help farmers and producers in the specialty crop industry to expand their reach and tap into new markets around the world. With this funding, the USDA aims to boost the competitiveness of U.S. specialty crops in the global market and support the growth of this vital sector.
In addition to the ASCE program, the USDA is also announcing the availability of $72.9 million in grant funding through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. This program provides funding to support the specialty crops industry in various ways, such as research, marketing, and promotion efforts. The funding will be distributed to state departments of agriculture, universities, and other organizations to support projects that will benefit the specialty crop industry as a whole.
These investments come at a crucial time for the specialty crops industry, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather events, and trade disruptions have all had a significant impact on the industry. However, with the support of the USDA, the specialty crop sector is poised for growth and success.
Secretary Vilsack emphasized the importance of these investments, stating, “The specialty crops industry plays a vital role in our economy and in providing nutritious and delicious food for consumers around the world. These investments will help our farmers and producers to expand their reach and increase their competitiveness in the global market.”
The specialty crops industry encompasses a wide range of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other crops that are not considered commodity crops. These crops are often grown on smaller farms and require specialized knowledge and techniques, making them an essential part of the agricultural landscape. The industry also contributes significantly to the economy, with over $72 billion in sales and supporting over 450,000 jobs in the United States.
The ASCE program and the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program will provide much-needed support to this vital industry and help it to continue to thrive and grow. By increasing exports and reaching new markets, the specialty crop sector will not only benefit farmers and producers but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the country.
The USDA’s investments in the specialty crops industry also align with the Biden administration’s focus on promoting American agriculture and supporting rural communities. These initiatives will not only benefit farmers and producers but also have a positive impact on the entire supply chain, from processors to distributors to consumers.
The USDA is committed to supporting the specialty crops industry and ensuring its continued success. With these investments, the industry will have the resources and support it needs to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities. As Secretary Vilsack stated, “We are excited to see the specialty crops industry continue to thrive and contribute to the strength of American agriculture.”
In conclusion, the launch of the ASCE program and the availability of grant funding through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program are significant steps towards supporting the growth and expansion of the specialty crops industry. These investments will provide much-needed support to farmers and producers, increase exports, and open up new markets for these vital crops. With the USDA’s support, the specialty crops industry is poised for a bright and prosperous future.
