Elizabeth Wolters, Deputy Commissioner | New York Department Of Agriculture and Markets
Elizabeth Wolters, Deputy Commissioner | New York Department Of Agriculture and Markets
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball has announced the availability of $1 million for New York's farmers' markets through the third round of the Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program. This funding aims to improve market infrastructure, modernize systems, and enhance marketing efforts across the state. The program is part of Governor Hochul’s initiative to strengthen New York's food system.
Commissioner Ball stated, “Our farmers’ markets are a staple in our communities, offering the opportunity for New Yorkers to purchase fresh local food and connect with their farmers, while providing a market for New York agricultural producers.” He highlighted that the program supports projects enhancing promotional efforts and online platforms, which facilitate business operations for farmers and increase sales at participating locations.
The grant program provides funding for infrastructure projects such as booths, signage, cold storage, and electronic infrastructure like website development with online sales capabilities. Marketing initiatives aimed at expanding consumer reach are also eligible. The goal is to maintain a resilient food system capable of withstanding supply chain disruptions and ensuring long-term viability.
Grants between $25,000 and $50,000 will be awarded on a rolling basis until funds are depleted. Interested parties can find eligibility criteria and application details on the Department’s website. Applications must adhere to a specified format by 3:00 pm on May 27, 2025. An informational webinar is scheduled for February 26 at noon.
This funding aligns with Governor Hochul’s broader investment strategy in New York's agricultural sector to boost demand for local products and fortify the state's food supply chain. It complements other initiatives like FreshConnect Fresh2You and Nourish New York aimed at increasing access to fresh foods.
Governor Hochul has also proposed additional measures in her 2025 State of the State address to support small-scale processing grants and maintain nutrition programs for seniors while expanding locally grown seafood supplies.
Currently, New York boasts over 400 farmers’ markets alongside farm stands and mobile markets that cater to growing consumer demand for fresh produce directly from farms. Several state-administered programs help low-income families access these products through initiatives like FreshConnect Checks.
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