By Blake Jackson
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, in partnership with the New York Farm Viability Institute (NYFVI), has announced that $1.7 million is available through the second round of the Beginning Farmer Grant Program.
This initiative supports farmers in New York with 10 years or less of experience who are operating or planning to operate a farm in the state. Funding can be used for start-up expenses, operational costs, and other essential investments to help new farmers grow their businesses.
“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," State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said.
" 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. I thank the New York Farm Viability Institute for their partnership in this program and look forward to successful applications.”
“The New York Farm Viability Institute is excited to again partner with the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets to offer a second round of the Beginning Farmer Competitive Grant Program," Aaron Ristow, Executive Director of NYFVI, said.
"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.”
Administered by NYFVI, the 2026 Beginning Farmer Grant Program helps farmers cover costs related to starting or expanding a farm, including land, structures, equipment, livestock, worker training, and marketing.
Awards range from $5,000-$200,000, depending on project size, with a 5% match required. Applicants must show potential for business growth and financial sustainability, and farms earning less than $1,000 the previous year must submit a business plan.
Applications are open through June 14, 2026. More details and informational webinars are available at NYFVI.ORG.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-alexeyrumyantsev
Categories: New York, Government & Policy