More than $2.25 million in funding is now available for youth and county fairs across New York State, according to an announcement from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Of this amount, $1.65 million comes from the Agricultural Fairgrounds Infrastructure Improvement Program (AFIIP), which is supported by the New York State Budget. The AFIIP aims to help local fairs with agriculture-related infrastructure improvements and renovations.
An additional $625,000 is being made available through the Agricultural Fairgrounds Advertising, Promotion, and Education Program (AFAPEP). This program focuses on advertising, promotion, and educational activities that encourage participation in county and local fairs throughout the state.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State Address proposes further support for county fairs as part of her “Unplug and Play” initiative for children. Since 2016, a total of $25 million has been dedicated to revitalizing these events.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball stated, “Our county and local fairs provide an incredible opportunity for fairgoers, especially our young people, to directly connect with our farmers and producers to learn about agriculture. This infusion of funding for our local fairs, both announced today and as proposed by our Governor, is a testament to just how important our fairs are to our communities. They’re a gathering space that provides fun and affordable entertainment, that educates New Yorkers about where their food comes from and how its grown, and celebrates our rich agricultural traditions.”
The AFIIP funds can be used for building or repairing fairground facilities such as barns or water systems. More than two hundred improvement projects have already been completed or started in previous rounds of this program. Eligible applicants may request between $10,000 and $50,000 per project by submitting their proposals before December 31, 2026.
The AFAPEP allows agricultural organizations sponsoring annual fairs to apply for up to $12,500 each for marketing efforts like print or digital ads or educational initiatives. Applications must include a work plan and budget submitted by July 1, 2026.
Governor Hochul’s recent plan also proposes new investments in infrastructure at county fairs through projects such as constructing show arenas or barns for youth competitions; upgrading bathrooms; adding hand washing stations; or installing security equipment.
Lauren Delaney, President of the New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs said: “Over several rounds, these grant opportunities have made a tremendous impact on the grounds of all the agricultural fairs across New York State. We’re excited to see additional funding dedicated for infrastructural improvements and marketing efforts at our fairs statewide and look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition and continue to showcase New York agriculture. County fairs are vital to their communities and the agricultural education of future generations. Grants like these enable us to complete much-needed upgrades to stay relevant in today’s society.”
There are more than 50 county and youth fairs operating annually across New York from July through early October. These events offer visitors insight into local agriculture including food production processes.
Additionally, the Department operates The Great New York State Fair in Syracuse—one of the oldest state fairs nationally—which will take place from August 26 through September 7 in 2026.
The Department continues its mission promoting agriculture while protecting food supply chains across New York state (official website). Its initiatives include grants supporting farmers’ markets (official website) as well as broader programs enhancing farm resilience (official website). Richard Ball has served as commissioner since 2014 alongside other key department leaders (official website).
