By Blake Jackson
According to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the state is seeking organizations to help administer the third round of the Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Farmers Grant Program, an initiative designed to expand opportunities for farmers who have faced barriers to success due to discrimination and limited access to resources.
The Department is currently accepting letters of interest from eligible entities, including municipalities, public benefit corporations, local development corporations, and nonprofit organizations.
The selected organization will oversee the distribution of $2 million in funding provided through the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 New York State budgets.
“This is a great opportunity for entities to play a direct role in helping our agricultural industry grow,” New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball said.
“I encourage all eligible entities to take advantage of the opportunity to administer the third round of the Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Farmers Grant Program and help provide farmers across our state with the funding they need to start or improve their business,” Ball added.
The grant program supports farmers who face disproportionate social and economic challenges in agriculture. Funding will be awarded competitively, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $250,000.
Eligible farmers may use the funds to start, improve, or expand farm operations, purchase land, livestock, equipment, and infrastructure, or support workforce training and apprenticeship programs.
The initiative also recognizes the needs of urban farmers and helps address challenges related to capital access, credit availability, and land ownership. Eligible socially disadvantaged farmers include individuals who have experienced discrimination based on race or ethnicity.
The selected program administrator will be responsible for managing applications, distributing grant funds, and ensuring the program reaches eligible producers throughout New York State.
The grant program is part of New York’s broader effort to strengthen agricultural diversity and create opportunities for underserved farming communities.
The initiative will help build a stronger, more inclusive agricultural sector while supporting the long-term success of farmers who have historically faced barriers to advancement.
Letters of interest must be submitted to the Department by October 7, 2026. For more information, visit https://agriculture.ny.gov/rfi-0431-program-administrator-round-3-socially-and-economically-disadvantaged-farmers-competitive.
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Categories: New York, Business, Government & Policy