California State Agriculture Programs Programs
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) administers state programs supporting farmers markets, healthy food access, organic certification cost-share, and specialty crop development alongside federal USDA programs.
CDFA Healthy Stores Refrigeration Grant Program
This program addresses food deserts by enabling small retailers to offer fresh fruits and vegetables in underserved neighborhoods.
What it provides: Grants for energy-efficient refrigeration in small food retail stores
Assistance: Grants up to $30,000 for commercial refrigeration units.
Eligibility: Stores must be in designated priority areas; grants cover refrigeration equipment purchase and installation.
Who may qualify:
- Small food retailers in low-income and underserved California communities
- Corner stores, bodegas, and independent grocers
- Businesses willing to stock fresh produce
Requirements:
- Business license and location verification
- Agreement to stock fresh produce
- Application during open funding rounds
How to apply: Apply during CDFA open solicitation periods announced on the Healthy Stores program page.
Official source: CDFA Healthy Stores
CDFA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
California receives the largest Specialty Crop Block Grant allocation nationally, reflecting its dominance in fruit, vegetable, and nut production.
What it provides: Federal pass-through grants supporting California specialty crop competitiveness
Assistance: Grant funding for research, pest management, marketing, and food safety training.
Eligibility: Projects must benefit multiple producers; grants typically $50,000–$500,000.
Who may qualify:
- Nonprofits, universities, and agricultural organizations in California
- Projects benefiting specialty crops (fruits, vegetables, nuts, nursery crops)
- Research, marketing, and food safety initiatives
Requirements:
- Detailed project proposal and budget
- Matching funds may be required
- Reporting on outcomes and metrics
How to apply: Apply during CDFA annual solicitation; proposals reviewed competitively by industry panel.
Official source: CDFA Grants
CDFA Farmer Marketplace Nutrition Program
These programs increase access to fresh local produce while supporting California small and mid-size farmers at farmers markets.
What it provides: Support for farmers market nutrition programs connecting growers with low-income consumers
Assistance: Funding for market operations and nutrition incentive matching programs.
Eligibility: Markets must accept WIC FMNP and Senior FMNP vouchers.
Who may qualify:
- California farmers markets and direct-marketing farmers
- WIC and senior nutrition program participants
- Community organizations operating nutrition incentive programs
Requirements:
- Market registration with CDFA
- Farmer certification
- Compliance with federal nutrition program rules
How to apply: Contact CDFA Farmers Market Nutrition Program office for enrollment and funding opportunities.
Official source: CDFA FMNP