Key Takeaways
- New York State Department of Agriculture has made $3 million available for workforce development in agriculture and food systems.
- Funding supports training, education, and credentialing programs across the agri-food sector.
- Eligible applicants can request between $50,000 and $500,000 with a 20% matching requirement.
- Proposals are due by April 28, 2026, with an informational webinar scheduled for February 23, 2026.
- The program aligns with Governor Hochul’s broader strategy to address workforce shortages in agriculture.
New York State Department of Agriculture Launches Agriculture and Food Workforce Grant Program
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball announced that $3 million is now available through the New York State Agriculture and Food Systems Workforce Development Grant Program. The initiative aims to strengthen the state’s agricultural and food systems workforce by supporting programs that prepare individuals for employment across diverse segments of the industry.
The program was first announced in Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2023 State of the State address and is designed to address workforce shortages while supporting the long-term viability of New York’s agricultural economy.
“New York’s agricultural and food industries need to continue to attract and retain future generations of skilled workers who are prepared for a career in an industry that is rapidly developing alongside emerging technologies and ever-changing consumer demand,” said Commissioner Ball.
Program Scope and Eligible Activities
Training, Education, and Career Advancement
Successful applicants must implement programs that lead individuals toward employment or career advancement in agriculture or food systems. Eligible activities include formal education, experiential learning, and workforce training programs that result in industry-recognized credentials or certifications.
The program also supports upskilling initiatives for individuals already employed in the sector, enabling them to gain new competencies, advance within their current roles, or pursue other opportunities within the industry.
Eligible applicants include registered not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, municipal government entities, and public benefit corporations. Applicants may request grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 and must provide a minimum 20% match through cash or in-kind contributions.
New York State Department of Agriculture Funding Timeline and Application Details
Key Dates and Resources
Funding for the program is included in the 2023–24, 2024–25, and 2025–26 State Budgets. Proposals are due by April 28, 2026. An informational webinar for interested applicants will be held on February 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets stated that it continues to engage with producers, processors, and educational institutions to ensure workforce training aligns with industry needs, including internships and apprenticeships in horticulture, dairy, crop production, food manufacturing, and distribution.
New York State Department of Agriculture's Broader Investment in Agricultural Education
The grant program complements additional state investments in agricultural education. Governor Hochul’s proposed Executive Budget includes funding for FFA, New York Agriculture in the Classroom, agricultural educator certification, urban agricultural education, 4-H programs, and MANRRS.
State officials noted that these combined efforts are intended to ensure agriculture remains a viable and competitive industry in New York by building a skilled and resilient workforce for the future.
