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Search Through Agriculture Grants in New York

The County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Planning Grant, offered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, provides funding to counties for the development or updating of agricultural and farmland protection plans. Eligible counties can receive up to $50,000 or 50% of total project costs. This initiative supports local governments in creating planning documents that foster a favorable environment for agriculture and safeguard the farmland base, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.

The Municipal Agricultural and Farmland Protection Planning Grant, provided by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, supports municipalities in creating and updating agricultural protection plans. Grants can cover up to $25,000 or 75% of project costs, requiring a minimum of 20% cash contribution. This initiative aims to enhance local agricultural support and safeguard farmland, fostering collaboration among municipalities for effective planning and resource management.

The New York State Animal Population Control Grant Program provides essential funding for low-cost spay/neuter services in New York. Administered by the ASPCA, this program aims to support eligible organizations, including municipal shelters and 501(c)(3) non-profits, in enhancing animal welfare. Funds can be used for various needs, such as payroll support, infrastructure improvements, and training, ensuring sustainable, accessible services for pet owners in need.

The A. Lindsay and Olive B. O'Connor Foundation offers grants under $5,000 to improve quality of life in rural Delaware County, NY. Eligible applicants include municipalities and 501(c)(3) organizations, focusing on projects that directly benefit the community. The foundation supports a variety of initiatives, including health, education, arts, and environmental preservation. Notably, it requires a $1 match for each dollar requested and imposes a three-year waiting period for reapplicants.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The Northeast Agricultural Education Foundation Grant supports educational and leadership initiatives focused on agriculture within the Northeastern United States. Established as a private foundation, it provides funding to 501(c)(3) organizations that promote agricultural leadership, enhance understanding of food production, and improve farmers' quality of life. The Foundation prioritizes programs that educate youth about agriculture and promote farm safety awareness. Grants are primarily directed towards statewide or larger projects that align with these objectives.

The Summer Meals Capacity Building Mini-Grants program aims to enhance the reach of summer meal services for children and youth in Rochester. By funding volunteer coordinators and capital purchases, the initiative seeks to increase participation in the Summer Meals program, ensuring that more youth receive nutritious meals when school is out. The program prioritizes organizations that have not previously received funding, fostering community support and engagement in addressing food insecurity.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare. Focus areas include agriculture, education, fighting hunger, and public safety. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and a Taxpayer Identification number. Requests are prioritized for programs directly benefiting communities near Perdue facilities across various states. The foundation emphasizes responsible stewardship and community engagement in all funding decisions.

The Lilah Hilliard Fisher Foundation Grant offers year-round funding for initiatives focused on regenerative agriculture and nutrition education, particularly in New York City and Litchfield County, Connecticut. Emphasizing support for human trafficking survivors, youth development, and social justice, the Foundation seeks projects that align with these priorities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, with some multi-year grants available. Notably, proposals outside the specified areas are by invitation only.

The AgEnhancement Grant, awarded by Farm Credit East and CoBank, provides funding between $500 to $10,000 annually to support projects that enhance agriculture, commercial fishing, and forest products in the Northeast. Since 1996, over $3.5 million has been distributed to various organizations. The program seeks initiatives that promote diversity and provide opportunities for all-sized farms, ensuring long-term benefits to the community and industry.

The Watershed Forestry Field Trips Grant Program, administered by the Watershed Agricultural Council, offers funding for educational trips within the NYC Watershed. These immersive experiences allow participants to explore local reservoirs and understand the vital connection between forestry and water quality. Open to various organizations and classrooms, this program encourages learning about sustainable practices while enjoying the natural beauty of the watershed. Apply now to enhance your understanding of NYC's drinking water sources!

The MIND Prize, funded by The Pershing Square Foundation, supports innovative research to combat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. It empowers early-to-mid-career investigators to explore unconventional approaches and fosters collaboration across disciplines. Each winner receives $250,000 annually for three years, promoting advancements in neuroscience and creating a unique network for researchers. The initiative aims to enhance our understanding of brain health and tackle pressing societal challenges.

The FVI Research and Education Grant aims to enhance the economic viability of New York's farms through innovative research and educational outreach. By funding projects that demonstrate clear benefits to farmers, the program seeks to improve farm practices, foster industry innovation, and support the adoption of new technologies. With approximately $1.5 million awarded each round, the initiative emphasizes collaboration with farmers to address production challenges and encourage data-driven decision-making.

The ASPCA is offering grants to New York State animal welfare organizations to enhance compliance with the new shelter standards effective December 15, 2025. Eligible organizations can utilize these funds for facility upgrades and operational changes necessary for licensing under Article 26-C. Grant funding can encompass various needs, from retrofitting housing to training staff in euthanasia protocols, ensuring improved animal care and welfare across the state.

RFA 0398 - Agricultural Fairgrounds Infrastructure Improvement Program

Overview

The Department invites eligible entities to apply for funding through the 2026 Agricultural Fairgrounds Infrastructure Improvement Program. The program will provide funding for fairgrounds infrastructure improvements to enhance visitor and exhibitor enjoyment of the county and local fairs in New York State.

Available Funding

There is a total of $1,650,754 available for this Program. Applicants may apply for amounts between $10,000 to $50,000. If funds remain after the application deadline, previously awarded applicants may apply for a second project if the previously awarded project is complete and the contract is closed. 

The Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grants aim to enhance aquaculture operations by providing funding for equipment and infrastructure projects. Administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the program offers two funding rounds: Round 1 for equipment on a rolling basis and Round 2 for infrastructure through a single proposal process. This initiative supports the long-term viability of the marine economy and encourages growth in New York's aquaculture sector.

The New York State Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers financial assistance for Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) to protect vital croplands and grasslands. This initiative supports landowners, including American Indian tribes and local governments, in maintaining agricultural land use by limiting non-agricultural development. By preserving these lands, the program ensures food security and promotes environmental quality, while also fostering local partnerships for sustainable land stewardship.

The New York State Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to help landowners restore and enhance wetlands previously degraded by agriculture. This program provides funding for permanent and temporary easements, ensuring habitat protection for wildlife, improved water quality, and resilience against climate change. NRCS prioritizes applications that enhance migratory bird habitats, making it a key initiative for ecological conservation in New York.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is offering funding through the Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund to eligible not-for-profit shelters and humane societies. This grant supports capital projects that enhance the health and care of sheltered dogs and cats, such as construction, renovation, or expansion of facilities. Organizations can apply for funding for specific components of larger projects, ensuring better containment and welfare of animals.

About Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers grants and education to farmers, educators, service providers, researchers and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region.

The program serves Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program is administered by Northeast SARE's host institution, the University of Vermont.

Farming Community Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant applies social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems at the community level.

These projects explore innovative approaches to improving the health and sustainability of agricultural communities in the Northeast. This program supports projects that are grounded in community partnerships and informed by the lived experiences of farmers. It encourages collaboration among farmers, service providers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-create solutions that are responsive to local needs and scalable across the region.

This program encourages innovative solutions to challenges in farming and food systems in the Northeast USA, including but not limited to the areas of: Marketing and business; Crop production; Raising livestock; Aquaculture; Economic and social sustainability; Ecological knowledge; Projects related to climate and/or bioenergy work that provide direct or indirect benefits to farmers,ranchers, and private foresters; and more.

Technical Assistance Program

Applicants and grantees of the Farming Community Grant Program are eligible for Technical Assistance (TA) provided by Northeast SARE’s Technical Assistance Providers.

Funding: This grant is reimbursement based; you must spend money to receive the grant funds.

The NY State Farm-to-School Grant Program promotes the use of locally produced foods in K-12 school cafeterias, enhancing meal quality and fostering relationships between schools and New York farmers. Established in 2015, the program aims to increase the purchase of New York specialty crops while addressing challenges such as seasonality and procurement complexities. Its secondary goals include improving agricultural education and exposing students to local culinary experiences, ultimately benefiting school-age children across the state.

The NYS Beginning Farmer Competitive Grant Program: Track 1 provides essential funding to assist new farmers in establishing sustainable commercial agricultural businesses. With $850,000 available, grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 will be awarded to eligible applicants who have been farming for less than 10 years. This initiative, administered by the New York Farm Viability Institute, aims to support the growth of independent agricultural enterprises across the state.

The Local Community Tourism Grant Program in Delaware County aims to foster economic growth by funding initiatives that promote tourism. Supported by the Delaware County Occupancy Tax, the program encourages projects in areas such as arts, community celebrations, marketing, and capital improvements. Eligible applicants include municipalities and nonprofit organizations, with a focus on attracting non-county visitors. Grant awards require a competitive application process and a minimum cash match, ensuring that projects align with the county's tourism development goals.

The RFP 0323 - Agricultural Nonpoint Source Pollution Abatement and Control Program invites Soil and Water Conservation Districts to propose projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution from agriculture in New York State. Eligible projects focus on planning (AEM Tier III) or implementing (AEM Tier IV) Best Management Practices. This program supports initiatives that contribute to cleaner watersheds and sustainable agricultural practices.

Mission

Our mission is to promote New York State agriculture and its high-quality and diverse products, foster agricultural environmental stewardship, and safeguard the state’s food supply, land, and livestock to ensure the viability and growth of New York’s agriculture industries.

The Department offers various funding opportunities to ensure the growth of New York’s agricultural communities. These opportunities touch many parts of the diverse agricultural sector: connecting farmers with new markets; supporting marketing efforts for producers and retailers; getting local, healthy foods into schools; improving infrastructure on fairgrounds and in companion animal shelters statewide; ensuring climate resilient farming practices; and more.

FFGF - NYS Food and Fiber Processing Grant Program

The Food and Fiber Processing Grant Program, administered by the Farm and Food Growth Fund (FFGF) on behalf of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, supports the scaling of existing and new products produced and harvested in New York State. Funding is available for the construction and renovation of facilities, as well as the purchase and installation of equipment. Priority will be given to projects that expand processing for fruits, vegetables, grains and beans for human consumption; plant and animal fibers.

Eligible applicants may apply for awards ranging from $250,000 to $2.5 million. Of the $8.5 million available, $1 million is reserved for projects that use plant and animal fiber. Processed products developed through the grant must contain a minimum of 51% raw agricultural ingredients grown or raised in New York State.

Funding priorities include:

• Early/initial stage processing for plant and animal fibers including retting, degumming, decortication, scouring, carding, and combing
• Edible fruits, vegetables, grains and beans for human consumption
• Projects focused on products that support the Nourish NY, Farm-to-School, and NYS 30% Initiative, or Executive Order 32
• Processed products containing large majority of New York State grown/harvested ingredients
• Further geographic diversity of New York State food processing capacity