The Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program: Regional Sub-Grant Program Round 4 is administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to strengthen the state’s local food systems by supporting farmers’ markets. With $500,000 in total funding, the program seeks to improve the infrastructure, outreach, and long-term sustainability of markets across New York through a regionalized sub-grant model. It is designed to help farmers’ markets better adapt to disruptions in the food supply chain and build resilient connections between producers and communities.
Eligible applicants for this round include registered not-for-profit organizations, municipal or local governments, business improvement districts, public benefit corporations, Indian Tribal Organizations, and public educational institutions that either operate or directly support at least one New York State farmers’ market. All applicants must show proof of market activity in 2024 or 2025 and must be registered in the Statewide Financial System (SFS). For-profit entities, private individuals, and out-of-state organizations are not eligible.
Awardees will act as regional intermediaries, issuing sub-grants of up to $20,000 through an open application process within their economic development regions. At least 50% of the total project budget must be allocated to these sub-grants. Sub-grant funds may support enhancements in market infrastructure, marketing, online platforms, and community programming, or assist producers in strengthening their presence at markets. Applicants may request between $100,000 and $200,000 per proposal.
Funding is reimbursement-based, with an option to request up to 25% as an initial payment and a final 10% held until completion of a final report. Projects must begin on April 1, 2026 and conclude by March 31, 2027. Submissions must be made online via the SFS Grants Management System by 3:00 p.m. on February 4, 2026. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications are not accepted. An informational webinar is scheduled for December 11, 2025.
Applicants are evaluated based on their project design, work plan, budget, long-term benefits, experience, and sustainability plan. A minimum score of 65 out of 100 is required to be considered for funding. Proposals will be ranked and funded until resources are exhausted. Awardees must also submit pre-approved sub-grant applications and agreements for Department review and maintain financial records for six years post-contract.
Ensure 50% of budget is sub-grants; cap Salary/Fringe and Space/Utilities at 30%; start SFS registration early to avoid disqualification.
