Key Takeaways
- The second round of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Beginning Farmer Grant Program provides $1.7 million in available funding.
- Grants target New York farmers with 10 years or less of operational experience.
- Individual awards range from $5,000 to $200,000, requiring a 5% applicant match.
- Funding covers start-up costs, land acquisition, equipment, and worker training.
- The application period is open through June 14, 2026.
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, in collaboration with the New York Farm Viability Institute (NYFVI), has announced the opening of applications for the second round of the Beginning Farmer Grant Program. A total of $1.7 million is available to support individuals who have been operating a farm in New York State for 10 years or less. This initiative is designed to assist with the financial costs associated with starting, improving, or expanding agricultural operations.
Criteria for New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Funding
To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate how the proposed project will grow their business and improve long-term financial sustainability. The program is open to farmers producing any type of agricultural product. Applicants whose farms generated less than $1,000 in the previous year are required to submit a formal business plan as part of their application.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball stated, “The Beginning Farmer Grant program is a critical program that provides the necessary capital that new and beginning farmers need to get started and to be successful in the agricultural industry. I’m proud that the Beginning Farmer Grant Program will help to bridge the gap in accessing these resources and allow our emerging farmers the means to purchase new equipment, expand the footprint of their operations, or even successfully market their business.”
Eligible Operational and Capital Expenses
The grant funding is divided into two tiers based on project complexity: awards between $5,000 and $50,000, and larger awards ranging from $50,001 to $200,000. All recipients must provide a 5% funding match. Eligible expenses include:
- Purchase of agricultural land and physical structures.
- Construction or improvement of semi-permanent and permanent structures.
- Acquisition of machinery, equipment, or livestock.
- Costs related to worker or apprenticeship training and marketing activities.
Executive Director of NYFVI Aaron Ristow noted, “In the first round, we heard directly from beginning farmers about how this support helped them make real progress on their farms. With double the original funding available, we are eager to reach even more beginning farmers and strengthen farm businesses and rural communities across New York State.”
Application Process and Deadlines
The program is administered by the NYFVI and was funded through the FY2023-2024 and FY2024-2025 New York State Enacted Budgets. Applications will remain open until June 14, 2026. Interested parties can access additional details and register for informational webinars through the official NYFVI website.
