# USDA Launches Specialty Crop Assistance Enrollment

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the enrollment period and payment rates for the Assistance for Specialty Crops Farmers (ASCF) program, allocating **$1.625 billion** to support specialty crop producers impacted by market disruptions and unfair trade practices. Enrollment opens June 1, 2026, for producers with Login.gov accounts and June 8, 2026, for in-person applications, with a deadline of August 7, 2026. Payments will be issued promptly upon approval to assist producers with production and marketing input costs.

- The Farm Service Agency (FSA) administers this federal program, providing direct financial assistance to specialty crop farmers nationwide.
- Procurement professionals should note the enrollment deadlines and payment schedules to advise clients and stakeholders effectively.
- This funding opportunity signals continued federal support for agricultural producers facing trade and market challenges, impacting supply chain and commodity markets.
- Contractors and service providers involved in agricultural support services may find increased demand aligned with this program's implementation and outreach efforts.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** May 30, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Farm Service Agency (FSA)

### Key Quotes
> The Trump administration continues to put Farmers First and is committed to ensuring the economic strength of our specialty crop operations as we continue opening new markets abroad and strengthening demand domestically for American produce.
> — Brooke L. Rollins, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

### Sources
- [USDA Announces Enrollment Period and Payment Rates for Specialty Crop Farmers | Farm Service Agency](https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/05-29-2026/usda-announces-enrollment-period-payment-rates-specialty-crop-farmers) - FSA