Agriculture and Food Systems Workforce Development Grant

The New York State Agriculture and Food Systems Workforce Development Grant Program is a competitive funding opportunity managed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. With a total allocation of up to $3 million, the program is designed to support the development of a skilled workforce in New York’s agriculture and food sectors. As part of its strategic goal to address labor shortages and prepare workers for evolving industry needs, the program seeks to build pathways to employment and career advancement in key agricultural and food system roles across the state. Funding will be administered through a structured application process, and the program is part of New York State’s broader efforts to bolster the agriculture industry’s sustainability and economic contribution. This grant opportunity targets programs that prepare individuals for jobs in the agriculture and food system industries. Funded initiatives may include formal education programs, experiential learning pathways, workforce training that leads to credentials or certifications, and up-skilling programs for those currently employed in the industry. The eligible activities focus on skills development that directly contributes to employment outcomes. Additionally, the grant supports both the creation of new programs and the enhancement of existing ones, provided applicants demonstrate how the additional funding will lead to measurable improvements such as expanded capacity, geographic reach, or credential offerings. To ensure alignment with the program’s goals, all funded proposals must address at least one of three core focus areas: (1) developing pathways for new entrants into the workforce, (2) providing workforce training that culminates in industry-recognized credentials, or (3) offering retention and up-skilling opportunities for current employees. Proposals must clearly define the agricultural or food system occupations being targeted and should include data-supported justifications for workforce needs. Eligible expenses include salaries and wages, materials, staff training, travel, participant support, and equipment (with restrictions on high-value purchases), among other directly related costs. Eligibility is limited to registered not-for-profit organizations (including those exempt under section 501(c)(3)), not-for-profit educational institutions (including K–12 schools and universities), municipal government entities, and public benefit corporations. For-profit entities and private individuals are not eligible. Applicants must also be registered and prequalified in the Statewide Financial System (SFS), except for public schools and municipal governments, which are only required to register. Applications must be submitted exclusively via the SFS Grants Management System; submissions by fax, mail, or email will not be accepted. The application deadline is April 28, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. An informational webinar will be held on February 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., and all questions regarding the RFP must be submitted in writing by March 20, 2026. Responses to questions will be published as a formal addendum on April 6, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced in July or August 2026. The program duration must not exceed three years from the contract start date. Contracts will be awarded on a reimbursement basis, with an option for an initial payment of up to 25% at the department's discretion. A 20% match is required from all applicants, which may include cash, in-kind services, or donated goods. Proposals will be evaluated based on criteria including program team qualifications, clarity of program description and objectives, budget justification, and projected program impact. All eligible proposals will be reviewed and scored by a panel designated by the department, with those receiving a score of 65 or higher eligible for award consideration. Additional points may be awarded at the department’s discretion to support geographic diversity in funding. Contracts will be formalized following approval by both the Attorney General and the State Comptroller.

Clearly define occupations targeted and use data to show need. Align to at least one of the three focus areas. Define measurable performance metrics.