Food Access Expansion Grant Program

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is offering the Food Access Expansion Grant Program, which aims to support capital infrastructure projects that improve food access and resilience in underserved areas. The grant provides funding for projects ranging from $250,000 to $3,000,000, with a 10% matching requirement. The total budget for the program is $10,000,000, and projects should focus on creating or expanding retail food stores, commercial kitchens, storage facilities, or mobile markets. Eligible costs include construction, equipment, and professional services directly related to the development of retail food infrastructure.

Applications must be submitted via the Statewide Financial System by November 22, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local governments, public benefit corporations, economic development organizations, and tribal governments. For-profit entities and private individuals are not eligible to apply. Projects must aim to reduce food insecurity, promote local food sourcing, and benefit New York State producers and underserved communities.

The program emphasizes compliance with construction regulations and financial documentation. Projects must be completed within five years, and funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, with up to 25% available as an initial payment. Evaluation criteria include project impact, cost reasonableness, and alignment with regional economic strategies. Quarterly progress reports and a final report will be required.