Key Takeaways:
- $1.2 million awarded to 17 Long Island aquaculture businesses to expand equipment and production
- Initiative part of New York’s Blue Food Transformation program to strengthen local seafood systems
- Round 2 of the Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant Program to open November 3 with $3 million available
- Funding supports modernization of operations, efficiency gains, and sustainable seafood growth
- Program administered by the Farm and Food Growth Fund for the Department of Agriculture and Markets
New York State Department of Agriculture Expands Support for Long Island’s Aquaculture Industry
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball announced $1.2 million in grants to 17 small businesses on Long Island to enhance aquaculture operations. The funding, awarded under the Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant Program, will help producers purchase and upgrade essential equipment to improve efficiency, production, and product quality.
The initiative is a key component of New York’s Blue Food Transformation program, introduced by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2024 to revitalize the state’s aquaculture and wild-caught seafood sectors. The program aims to strengthen regional food systems and increase consumer access to locally raised and harvested seafood.
Program Drives Innovation and Efficiency in Aquaculture
Announced at Hampton Oyster Company in New Suffolk, the Round 1 funding supports a range of projects improving automation and processing capacity. Hampton Oyster Company, one of the recipients, will deploy advanced digital grading technology to sort oysters by size, shape, and weight using imaging and sensors. The system is expected to nearly double operational efficiency while ensuring product consistency for retail and wholesale markets.
Commissioner Ball emphasized the value of aquaculture to the state’s food economy: “Long Island’s aquaculture producers work tirelessly to raise the fresh, abundant seafood that makes the region so beloved. This funding helps these businesses make much-needed upgrades so they can continue bringing the very best seafood New York State has to offer.”
Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant Program Opens Round 2
Administered by the Farm and Food Growth Fund for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the program focuses on expanding, improving, or installing aquaculture-related infrastructure and equipment. Round 2, launching November 3, will provide $3 million in funding for construction, renovation, and installed fixtures, with grants ranging from $100,000 to $250,000.
Stakeholders Applaud State Investment in Coastal Communities
Industry leaders and state legislators commended the investment for its potential to sustain local jobs, modernize operations, and preserve coastal economies.
Todd M. Erling, President and CEO of the Farm and Food Growth Fund, noted, “This round of funding is the first step in a multi-faceted program to increase awareness and access to New York’s world-class seafood.”
Senator Michelle Hinchey added, “We’re excited to see even more businesses apply in the next round to keep bringing the state’s best seafood to market—and onto people’s plates.”
Eric Koepele, President of the Long Island Oyster Growers Association, said, “Aquaculture, especially oyster farming, is booming on Long Island. Today’s announcements are bold, meaningful steps that will accelerate the growth of Long Island’s aquaculture industry.”
Blue Food Transformation Strengthens New York’s Seafood Sector
The Blue Food Transformation initiative supports seafood production, processing, and marketing across New York. Alongside the grant program, recent efforts include the launch of the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail and completion of the Seafood Processing Feasibility Study, aimed at expanding processing capacity.
Through interagency collaboration and continued investment, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets seeks to strengthen the state’s coastal economies, improve food security, and ensure the long-term sustainability of New York’s aquaculture industry.
