New York State Grown & Certified Infrastructure Technology Grant: $5.8M Technology & Research Funding for NY Farmers

Grant Overview

Essential Grant Money for Agriculture: Transform Your NY Farm with Up to $250K in Funding

Finding reliable grant money for agriculture isn’t just about knowing where to look – it’s about understanding which opportunities actually deliver meaningful support to working farms and agricultural businesses. The New York State Grown & Certified Infrastructure, Technology, Research and Development Grant Program delivers substantial grant money for agriculture, offering up to $5.8 million statewide to revolutionize farming operations across New York. This competitive program provides financial support ranging from $20,000 to $250,000 for individual capital projects and $10,000 to $50,000 for research initiatives, covering up to 90% of total project costs. Designed specifically for agricultural producers, food processors, distributors, and agricultural cooperatives, this program represents one of the most significant opportunities for grant money for agriculture in New York State, focusing on critical infrastructure improvements, cutting-edge technology adoption, and innovative research that directly benefits the state’s agricultural industry.

The program operates through a unique structure where eligible Program Administrators including counties, municipalities, local development corporations, and not-for-profit organizations—receive block grants to distribute to individual agricultural entities. This approach ensures that funding reaches the farms and businesses that need it most, with a strong emphasis on projects that enhance production automation, improve distribution capacity, advance processing and packaging capabilities, strengthen food safety measures, and promote environmental sustainability. For any agricultural operation in New York looking to modernize, expand, or innovate, this grant represents an unparalleled opportunity to access substantial financial support while aligning with the prestigious NYS Grown & Certified program.

What Sets This Agriculture Funding Apart from Other Programs

Most grant money for agriculture comes with strict limitations on how funds can be used. This program breaks that mold. Whether you’re a dairy operation looking to upgrade milking equipment, a produce farm considering automated harvesting technology, or an agricultural processor developing new value-added products, the flexibility here is substantial.

The program specifically seeks projects with “direct and timely benefit to New York agricultural producers and processors.” That’s not bureaucratic language – it means reviewers are looking for applications that can demonstrate real, measurable improvements to farming operations within a reasonable timeframe.

Q: What types of infrastructure qualify for this grant money for agriculture?
A: Critical farm infrastructure includes storage facilities, processing equipment, irrigation systems, renewable energy installations, and technology for precision agriculture.

Q: Can research projects receive funding through this program?
A: Yes, cutting-edge research projects that develop new products or processes to meet consumer demand are eligible.

Q: Is there a minimum or maximum grant amount?
A: The program doesn’t specify exact amounts, but funding is allocated on a competitive basis with emphasis on projects showing significant regional impact.

The Real Story Behind New York’s Agricultural Investment Strategy

New York State has committed substantial resources to agricultural development because the numbers tell a compelling story. The state recently announced $4.25 million available to support beginning and disadvantaged farmers, part of a broader strategy to strengthen local food systems and reduce dependence on distant agricultural regions.

This grant money for agriculture isn’t just about individual farm success. It’s part of New York’s larger agricultural economic development plan. The state recognizes that modern farming requires significant capital investment – from precision agriculture technology to sustainable infrastructure upgrades – and many operations can’t access traditional lending for these improvements.

The New York agricultural funding landscape has evolved significantly, with programs now emphasizing technology adoption, climate resilience, and market development. This particular grant aligns with those priorities while maintaining flexibility for diverse agricultural enterprises.

What They’re Really Looking For

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets isn’t just handing out money—they’re making strategic investments in the future of New York agriculture. They want projects that demonstrate genuine innovation and clear benefits to the broader agricultural community. When reviewing applications, they’re specifically looking for initiatives that address critical industry challenges while positioning New York as a leader in agricultural advancement.

Program administrators are evaluated based on their ability to market the program effectively, their knowledge of regional agricultural needs, and their experience in delivering grant programs. For individual agricultural projects, the emphasis is on new and innovative approaches that go beyond standard industry practices. They’re not interested in funding routine operations or minor upgrades—they want transformative projects that will have ripple effects throughout the agricultural sector.

Who Exactly Can Apply?

Eligibility for this grant money for agriculture operates on two levels: Program Administrators and individual Agricultural Entities. Program Administrators serve as intermediaries who receive block grants and then distribute funds to qualifying agricultural projects. These administrators include counties, municipalities, local development corporations, regional development corporations, public benefit corporations, Industrial Development Agencies, regional planning councils, economic development organizations, and not-for-profit corporations.

For individual agricultural entities, the program is open to:
– Agricultural producers located within New York State which produce an edible agricultural product
– Food processing establishments located in New York State
– Distributors that represent at least ten New York producers
– Agricultural Cooperatives of edible products, which have at least 10 members residing in New York State or at least 51% of membership residing in New York State
– New York not-for-profit corporations partnering with one or more NYS G&C producers, food processing establishments, distributors, or agricultural cooperatives

Q: Do I need to be part of the NYS Grown & Certified program to apply?
A: Yes, all applicants must be currently enrolled in the NYS Grown & Certified program or provide a letter of commitment to be enrolled by the conclusion of the project.

Funding Breakdown: How the Money Actually Works

The program offers substantial financial support with $5.8 million available statewide, divided between capital projects and research initiatives. Here’s how the funding breaks down:

– $5.0 million for capital projects
– $800,000 for research and development projects

Individual agricultural entities can receive:
– Capital projects: $20,000 to $250,000 each
– Research and development projects: $10,000 to $50,000 each

Grant funds can cover up to 90% of the total project cost, meaning agricultural entities must provide at least 10% of the total project cost as matching funds. These matching funds can come from cash, grants, or loans, providing flexibility for different types of operations. This high funding percentage makes this one of the most attractive sources of grant money for agriculture in New York State.

Eligible Projects: What You Can Fund

The program supports two main types of projects: capital projects and research and development initiatives. Each category has specific eligible and ineligible costs.

Capital projects can fund:
– Machinery and equipment purchases
– Construction expenses
– Acquisition or expansion of buildings
– Architectural and engineering costs
– Consultants and technical service providers

Research and development projects can fund:
– Consultants and technical service providers
– Research activities aimed at new product development

Both project types must implement new and innovative practices or approaches to meet industry needs and consumer demand. All projects must have a direct and timely benefit to New York’s agricultural industry and significance to the region served, with focus on priority areas including production automation and labor efficiency, distribution capacity enhancement, processing and packaging, food safety, and environmental sustainability directly related to NYS G&C participation.

What’s Not Covered

Understanding what you can’t fund is just as important as knowing what you can. The program specifically excludes certain expenses to ensure funds are used for transformative projects rather than routine operations. Ineligible costs for both capital and research projects include:

– Working capital
– Purchase of land
– Passenger vehicles
– Routine costs associated with day-to-day operations

These restrictions ensure that the grant money for agriculture is used for investments that will have lasting impact on the agricultural operation and the broader industry, rather than covering ongoing operational expenses.

Regional Distribution: How Funds Are Allocated

The $5.8 million in funding is distributed across New York State’s Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) groupings to ensure equitable access to this grant money for agriculture throughout the state:

– Southern Tier REDC, Western New York REDC: $1,000,000 for capital projects; $200,000 for research and development projects
– Finger Lakes REDC, Central New York REDC: $1,000,000 for capital projects; $200,000 for research and development projects
– Long Island REDC, New York City REDC, and Mid-Hudson REDC: $1,500,000 for capital projects; $200,000 for research and development projects
– Mohawk Valley REDC, Capital District REDC, North Country REDC: $1,500,000 for capital projects; $200,000 for research and development projects

One Program Administrator will be awarded for each of these specified REDC groupings, ensuring that each region of the state has dedicated support for distributing this agricultural grant funding.

Timeline and Key Dates

Understanding the timeline is crucial for successful application. While specific deadlines may vary slightly each year, the program generally follows this schedule:

– Application period: Typically opens in spring with applications due by late July (4:00 PM deadline)
– Review period: Applications evaluated during summer months
– Award announcements: Usually in fall
– Project completion deadline: Awardees have 5 years from the date of contract execution to spend all program funds (anticipated fall 2027 for current round)

It’s important to note that all proposals must be submitted through the New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA), which streamlines the application process for multiple state funding sources.

Navigating the Consolidated Funding Application Process

Here’s where many applicants stumble. The New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) system handles this program, and it’s different from typical grant applications. You’re not just applying for one funding source – you’re entering a competitive process where multiple funding streams are considered simultaneously.

The CFA requires detailed project descriptions, budget justifications, and demonstration of regional economic impact. But here’s what the official guidelines don’t tell you: reviewers prioritize applications that clearly connect project outcomes to measurable benefits for the broader agricultural community.

Q: When does the CFA application period typically open?
A: The Consolidated Funding Application typically opens in spring, with detailed timelines announced through the Regional Economic Development Councils.

Q: Can organizations apply on behalf of individual farmers?
A: Yes, eligible applicants include organizations that will administer grant programs benefiting agricultural entities.

The 3-Point Checklist for a Winning Application

Success in securing this grant money for agriculture requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Based on the program’s selection criteria, here are the three key elements your application must emphasize:

1. Innovation and Impact: Clearly demonstrate how your project implements new and innovative practices that address critical industry needs. Show how it will benefit not just your operation but the broader agricultural community in your region.

2. Alignment with NYS Grown & Certified: Prove your commitment to the NYS Grown & Certified program’s standards. If you’re not already certified, provide a clear plan and timeline for achieving certification by project completion.

3. Financial Viability and Matching Funds: Present a solid financial plan showing how you’ll provide the required 10% match. Demonstrate that your project is financially sustainable and represents a wise investment of state funds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applications for this grant money for agriculture are unsuccessful due to avoidable errors. Learn from these common pitfalls:

– Applying for projects that don’t demonstrate genuine innovation or significant impact
– Failing to show how the project benefits the broader agricultural community beyond just your operation
– Not having a clear plan for NYS Grown & Certified certification
– Inadequate documentation of matching funds or financial viability
– Submitting incomplete or poorly prepared applications through the CFA system

Taking the time to address these areas thoroughly can significantly improve your chances of success.

A Look at Past Success Stories

While specific project details vary, successful applicants in previous rounds have included farms that implemented automated processing equipment to reduce labor costs, food processors that adopted innovative packaging technologies to extend shelf life, and agricultural cooperatives that developed new value-added products meeting consumer demand. These projects not only improved individual operations but also strengthened New York’s agricultural industry as a whole.

The program has consistently supported projects that demonstrate clear benefits to multiple stakeholders, create jobs, enhance food safety, and promote environmental sustainability. Looking at these success stories can provide valuable insights into what types of projects are most likely to receive funding.

Q: How competitive is this grant program?
A: Highly competitive. With $5.8 million available statewide and significant interest from agricultural operations across New York, success rates vary by region and project type. Well-prepared applications that clearly demonstrate innovation and impact have the best chances.

Q: Can I apply if I’m not currently NYS Grown & Certified?
A: Yes, but you must provide a letter of commitment to become certified by the conclusion of your project. It’s wise to begin the certification process early.

Q: How long does the application process take?
A: Plan for at least 2-3 months to prepare a strong application, including gathering documentation, developing your project plan, and completing the CFA submission.

Q: Can I apply for both a capital project and a research project?
A: Yes, but they must be submitted as separate applications. Each project type has different funding ranges and requirements.

Q: What’s the most important factor in project selection?
A: Innovation and impact. Projects that demonstrate new approaches to solving industry challenges and show clear benefits beyond just the applicant’s operation are prioritized.

Q: What documentation do successful applications typically include?
A: Detailed project budgets, letters of support from agricultural organizations, market analysis for new products, and demonstrated experience implementing similar projects.

Q: Are there matching fund requirements?
A: While not explicitly stated, projects showing applicant investment or leveraging additional funding sources typically score higher during review.

Q: Can the same organization apply for multiple projects?
A: Yes, but each application must represent a distinct project with separate budgets and timelines.

Honestly, putting together a proposal for this level of grant money for agriculture is a significant undertaking. The application process through the CFA system can be complex, and competition is fierce. If you’re serious about securing this funding and want to ensure your application stands out, that’s exactly what we do at Grantaura. Our team understands what program administrators are looking for and can help you present your project in the most compelling way possible. A little expert guidance on your grant proposal can make all the difference between success and disappointment. CLICK HERE to get the GRANT PROPOSAL WRITING help you need.

Beyond the Grant – Building Long-Term Agricultural Success

This funding opportunity connects to broader resources available through small business development programs and agricultural extension services. Recipients often leverage this initial grant money for agriculture into additional funding sources, creating comprehensive modernization plans.

The program’s emphasis on innovation and technology adoption positions recipients for future opportunities. Federal programs like USDA Rural Development grants often build on state-level investments, creating pathways for continued growth and improvement.

For agricultural businesses serious about long-term success, this grant represents more than immediate funding. It provides credibility with lenders, demonstrates commitment to innovation, and creates connections within New York’s agricultural development network.

Look, putting together an application for grant money for agriculture at this level is complex work. You’re not just filling out forms – you’re making a strategic case for how your project strengthens New York’s entire agricultural sector. If you’re serious about this opportunity and want expert guidance through the process, that’s exactly what we do at Grantaura. Sometimes a second pair of expert eyes can make the difference between a competitive application and a winning one.

Donor: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets

Focus: agriculture grants, farm infrastructure, technology adoption, research and development, food processing, NYS Grown & Certified

Region: New York State, United States

Eligibility:
– Agricultural producers located within New York State which produce an edible agricultural product
– Food processing establishments located in New York State
– Distributors that represent at least ten New York producers
– Agricultural Cooperatives of edible products with at least 10 members in NY or 51% NY membership
– New York not-for-profit corporations partnering with NYS G&C producers or processors
– Must be enrolled in NYS Grown & Certified program or commit to enrollment by project completion

Benefits:
– Financial Award: Up to $250,000 for capital projects; up to $50,000 for research projects; covers up to 90% of total project costs
– Program Support: Access to NYS Grown & Certified program resources and marketing benefits
– Regional Impact: Projects must demonstrate significance to the region served

Deadline: July 28, 2023 at 4:00 PM (Annual cycle, verify current year deadline)

16 More Grants For Agriculture, Farmers, Ranchers, & Producers:
1. SARE Grants 2025: $400K Farm Research Funding – The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program offers substantial funding for agricultural research and education projects, with awards ranging from $30,000 to $250,000. This grant money for agriculture supports innovative farming practices and sustainability initiatives across the United States.

2. Agricultural Businesses Grants – Explore our comprehensive collection of specialized grant opportunities designed specifically for agricultural businesses. From startup funding to expansion capital, these grants provide essential financial support for farming operations at every stage of development.

3. The USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program offers comprehensive support for new agricultural entrepreneurs, providing both funding and technical assistance for sustainable farming operations.

4. Meanwhile, the USDA Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education grants focus specifically on research projects that advance environmentally sound farming practices and economic viability for agricultural operations.

5. CO Advanced Industries Infrastructure Grant $500K Funding – While focused on Colorado, this infrastructure grant program offers valuable insights into funding models for agricultural technology and infrastructure projects that could be adapted for New York operations.

6. Value-added agriculture receives targeted support through the USDA Value-Added Producer Grant Program, which helps farmers develop new products and marketing strategies to increase farm income.

7. For agricultural businesses focused on technology adoption, the USDA Rural Energy for America Program provides grants and loan guarantees for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements on farms and in rural small businesses.

8. Grants for Farmers & Ranchers – Discover targeted funding opportunities for farming operations, including specialized programs for beginning farmers, sustainable agriculture initiatives, and rural development projects that complement the NYS Grown & Certified grant.

9. $125K In Export Grants New York From Global NY Fund Program – For agricultural producers looking to expand their market reach, this export grant program offers $25,000 grants to support international trade show participation and global market development.

10. NY Supplier Finance Program: $5K Grants for Businesses – This New York program offers $5,000 grants specifically for minority, women, veteran, and LGBTQ+ owned businesses, including agricultural operations that supply larger companies.

11. Non-Profit Organization Grants – Agricultural non-profits can explore this collection of funding opportunities to support programs that benefit farming communities, agricultural education, and food system initiatives.

12. New York City Grants & Funding Opportunities – While focused on NYC, this collection includes agricultural and food system grants that may be relevant to urban farming initiatives and food access programs serving the broader New York metropolitan area.

13. AmplifyMass Grant 2025: Unlock $300,000 in Cost-Share Funding – Though Massachusetts-based, this cleantech grant program offers a model for funding agricultural technology innovations that could be adapted for New York farms seeking energy efficiency solutions.

14. Lenovo Small Business AI Grant: $35K Funding & Support – Agricultural businesses exploring artificial intelligence applications can benefit from this grant offering $25,000 cash plus $10,000 in AI technology and mentorship support.

15. Researchers Grants – Agricultural researchers and innovators can find specialized funding opportunities to support the development of new farming technologies, sustainable practices, and value-added agricultural products.

16. Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) 26th Call for Proposals 2025 – This international funding program supports agricultural commodity development projects, offering opportunities for New York producers engaged in global agricultural markets.

For more grant money for agriculture opportunities, explore Grantaura’s comprehensive database of active grants. Our platform is completely free to use and updated daily with new funding opportunities for agricultural businesses, non-profits, and researchers. Whether you’re looking for infrastructure funding, technology adoption support, or research grants, Grantaura connects you with the most relevant agricultural grants available today.

Terms:
– Grant Money for Agriculture: Financial assistance provided to farming operations, agricultural businesses, and researchers to support projects that enhance productivity, sustainability, and innovation in the agricultural sector. This term encompasses various funding mechanisms including grants, loans, and cost-share programs specifically designed for agricultural applications.

– New York State Grown & Certified Program: A state branding and marketing initiative that promotes agricultural products grown and produced in New York, emphasizing quality, freshness, and local economic support for grant money for agriculture recipients.

– Agricultural Entities: Farms, agricultural businesses, food processors, cooperatives, and related organizations engaged in agricultural production, processing, or marketing activities eligible for this grant money for agriculture.

– Capital Projects: Physical investments in agricultural infrastructure including machinery, equipment, construction, and building improvements that enhance operational capacity and efficiency. These projects typically have tangible, long-lasting assets that directly contribute to farm productivity.

– Research and Development Projects: Initiatives focused on creating new knowledge, products, or processes in agriculture. These projects often involve experimentation, analysis, and innovation to address industry challenges and meet evolving consumer demands.

– Matching Funds: The portion of project costs that grant recipients must provide from their own resources, typically expressed as a percentage of total project costs. For this program, recipients must provide at least 10% in matching funds through cash, grants, or loans.

– Program Administrator (PA): An eligible organization that receives a block grant to administer and distribute funds to individual agricultural entities. PAs are responsible for program promotion, application review, grant awards, and contract oversight.

– Consolidated Funding Application (CFA): New York State’s streamlined application process that allows applicants to access multiple state funding sources through a single application, reducing bureaucracy and improving efficiency in the grant application process.

– Regional Economic Development Council (REDC): Regional councils throughout New York State that develop strategic plans for economic development and help guide state funding decisions, including the distribution of agricultural grant funds across different regions.

– Food Safety Standards: Protocols and practices designed to ensure food products are safe for consumption. These are a key component of the NYS Grown & Certified program and often a requirement for agricultural grant eligibility.

– Environmental Management: Practices and systems that minimize agriculture’s environmental impact while maintaining productivity. Participation in environmental management programs is typically required for NYS Grown & Certified certification and related grant opportunities.

– Value-Added Agriculture: The process of increasing the economic value of agricultural commodities through processing, packaging, marketing, or other activities that make the product more attractive to consumers and command higher prices.

– Agricultural Cooperatives: Organizations owned and controlled by agricultural producers who join together to achieve common goals such as marketing products, purchasing supplies, or providing services. These cooperatives are eligible applicants for many agricultural grant programs.

– Innovative Technology: New or advanced tools, equipment, and systems that improve agricultural efficiency, productivity, or sustainability. Grant programs often prioritize funding for technology adoption that represents significant advancement over standard industry practices.

– Infrastructure Improvement: Upgrades to physical assets and systems that support agricultural operations, including buildings, utilities, transportation networks, and processing facilities. These improvements are often eligible for grant funding as they enhance long-term operational capacity.

– Precision Agriculture: Technology-driven farming approach that uses GPS, sensors, and data analysis to optimize field-level management regarding crop farming, representing a key focus area for grant money for agriculture.

– Agricultural Competitiveness: The ability of farms and agricultural businesses to compete effectively in markets through improved efficiency, quality, innovation, and cost management strategies.

– Farm Business Development: Comprehensive support for agricultural enterprises including business planning, market analysis, financial management, and strategic growth initiatives funded through various grant money for agriculture programs.

Author: Imran Ahmad understands the critical role that grant money for agriculture plays in sustaining and advancing New York’s farming communities. Having worked with numerous agricultural businesses seeking funding, he recognizes the transformative impact that programs like the NYS Grown & Certified Infrastructure Grant can have on farm operations. Imran founded Grantaura to bridge the information gap that often prevents qualified farmers and agricultural businesses from accessing essential funding opportunities. His hands-on experience helping agricultural clients navigate complex grant applications has given him unique insights into what makes successful proposals stand out. Through Grantaura, Imran continues to empower agricultural entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to secure the funding necessary to innovate, expand, and thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.