By Blake Jackson
The Franklin County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC), in collaboration with Franklin County, has introduced the Frontier Harvest Fund a $300,000 grant initiative aimed at supporting the growth and sustainability of the region’s small farms, food producers, and agritourism ventures.
Funded through the New York State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Microenterprise Program, the fund offers grants between $5,000 and $35,000 to help agricultural entrepreneurs strengthen and expand their businesses.
The Frontier Harvest Fund targets small enterprises contributing to Franklin County’s thriving agricultural landscape, particularly those involved in producing value-added goods and experiences.
Eligible businesses include producers of fresh food, handcrafted products such as soaps and flowers, and agritourism operations offering farm-to-table dinners, workshops, or tours.
Grant funds may be applied toward various business expenses, including equipment purchases, inventory (such as livestock), employee wages, marketing, or software upgrades.
“This program is about putting resources where they can make a real difference for our economy. Small farms and agritourism businesses don’t just create jobs they attract visitors, generate tax revenue, and keep more dollars circulating here in Franklin County," Franklin County Legislative Chairperson Ed Lockwood said.
"The Frontier Harvest Fund gives these businesses the tools they need to grow, compete, and contribute even more to our local economy.”
“Agriculture is the backbone of our rural economy here in the Adirondack Frontier," Jeremy Evans, CEO of FCEDC said. "The Frontier Harvest Fund is a direct investment in the people who work our land and create the unique local products and experiences that define our region and we are excited to partner with Franklin County on this project. By supporting our small farms and agritourism entrepreneurs, we’re cultivating a more resilient, locally rooted economy from the ground up.”
Eligible applicants must be for-profit businesses based in Franklin County with five or fewer employees, including owners. Each applicant must either create one full-time equivalent job for a low-to-moderate-income (LMI) individual or qualify as an LMI entrepreneur.
A 10% cash equity match and completion of a state-approved entrepreneurial training program are also required.
Applications open on November 3, 2025. For full program details, including income requirements and eligible expenses, visit adirondackfrontier.com/small-business/frontier-harvest-fund.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kotenko-a
Categories: New York, Government & Policy