New York Expands Farmers Market Grants

By Blake Jackson

New York State has announced $500,000 in funding for farmers’ markets through Part 1 of the fourth round of the Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program. This initiative supports long-term food supply chain strength by improving infrastructure, expanding promotion, and increasing delivery options. The program is part of New York’s commitment to building a resilient, accessible, and modern food system.

State officials emphasized the importance of reliable local food networks. As stated, “The Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program is a crucial component of New York’s ongoing effort to strengthen our food supply chain… I encourage all eligible markets to apply for this great opportunity.” The program has already completed three rounds of awards, helping markets across the state reach more consumers.

A new requirement in Part 1 ensures that awardees offer sub-grants to farmers’ markets or vendors within their region. This open application approach is designed to support more markets, especially small or emerging ones. Part 2 of the program, expected soon, will provide an additional $200,000 directly to markets without a sub-grant requirement.

Eligible applicants can receive between $100,000 and $200,000. Awardees may support projects such as improving market infrastructure, modernizing product delivery systems, and expanding outreach efforts. Application details and eligibility information are available from the Department of Agriculture and Markets website. The deadline to apply is 3:00 p.m. on February 4, 2026. A program webinar will be held on December 11.

This funding is part of a broader state investment aimed at increasing demand for New York agricultural products, strengthening food supply chains, and making fresh local foods more accessible.

Additional initiatives include Nourish New York, the 30 Percent NYS Initiative for school meals, FreshConnect, Farm-to-School programs, and major investments in regional school food infrastructure.

Farmers’ markets, Farm stands, and mobile markets play a vital role in connecting producers with consumers. The Department currently works with more than 400 farmers’ markets, 250 farm stands, and 10 mobile market operators, helping bring fresh, affordable food directly to communities across the state.

Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska