The 2024-2025 New York State Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund, administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, provides competitive grants for capital projects benefiting municipal and nonprofit animal shelters, humane societies, and rescue facilities across New York. This funding, totaling $10.45 million, aims to support infrastructure that enhances the secure containment, health, and care of sheltered dogs and cats, with $4 million specifically reserved for underserved areas.

Eligible applicants include municipal or nonprofit shelters registered under Sections 114 or 408 of the Agriculture and Markets Law, excluding facilities operated from private residences. Grants support capital project expenses, including construction, renovation, and expansion of shelter facilities, with required matching funds of at least 10% of the total project cost. Ineligible costs include land purchase, medical facilities for outpatient services, and staff labor performed by shelter employees or volunteers.

Applications must be submitted online through the Statewide Financial System (SFS) by December 20, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. Applicants should first register in SFS and complete a prequalification process, as only prequalified nonprofit organizations will be eligible for review. A thorough proposal should address need assessment, detailed project descriptions, budget, and compliance with Association of Shelter Veterinarians (ASV) guidelines. The maximum score for proposals is 100 points, with a minimum score of 65 required for funding consideration.

Grant recipients are expected to start construction within three months of contract approval, with project completion within two years. Awarded funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, with up to 25% available as an initial payment. For questions or assistance, applicants can contact Ana Colon at Ana.Colon@agriculture.ny.gov.