Farmers' Market Resiliency Grant 2025

The Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program 2025, managed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, aims to enhance the resilience of farmers’ markets in the state. The grant seeks to support projects that contribute to long-term market viability, sustainability, and adaptability in the face of challenges. Eligible projects include the development and enhancement of market infrastructure, expansion of online capabilities, marketing, and delivery systems. The program offers a total of $1,000,000 in funding, with individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. The funds are available on a rolling basis until they are depleted, with applications evaluated in order of receipt. The application process is conducted through the Statewide Financial System (SFS) Grants Management System. No matching funds are required, but grant funds must be used for eligible project costs, such as salaries, contractor services, marketing, electronic equipment, and physical infrastructure improvements. Non-eligible expenses include vendor merchandise purchases, insurance for market operation, and indirect costs. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, local or municipal governments, business improvement districts, public benefit corporations, Indian tribal organizations, and public educational institutions. Applicants must operate or support one or more farmers' markets in New York State, and community-led groups may apply with a fiscal sponsor. Ineligible applicants include for-profit entities, private individuals, and those proposing to start a new market or submit projects below $25,000 or above $50,000. Applicants must be registered and pre-qualified in the SFS system prior to application submission. The project term begins on April 1, 2025, and projects must be completed by December 31, 2025. The application deadline is May 27, 2025, with a deadline for questions on May 9, 2025. All questions about the program must be submitted by email or fax, and responses will be posted on the department’s website starting March 5, 2025. Applicants must submit a complete application through the SFS, including responses to program-specific questions, a work plan, and a project budget. The work plan should clearly define the project's objectives, tasks, and performance measures, while the budget must meet specific allocation guidelines. Applicants will need to provide documentation validating their farmers' market operations, such as vendor records or market permits. The grant funds will be reimbursed upon submission of a final report detailing project completion and its impact. Awardees must comply with reporting requirements, including the submission of claims for payment and a final report within 60 days of project completion. Furthermore, contractors must adhere to specific New York State regulations concerning worker’s compensation, Charities Bureau registration, and MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises) participation goals, as well as SDVOB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business) inclusion.