The Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program 2025, administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, is a targeted funding opportunity designed to strengthen the infrastructure and operational sustainability of farmers’ markets across New York State. This initiative aims to enhance market resilience through support for physical improvements, technology adoption, outreach, and local food system adaptability.

The program seeks projects that build long-term market viability and accessibility, especially those that help markets recover from adversity and adapt to shifting community needs. Eligible initiatives include infrastructure repair or enhancements, online and delivery systems, and marketing campaigns. Projects must directly support the continued operation of one or more established farmers' markets in New York State. A farmers’ market, for this program, is defined as a site used by two or more producers for direct consumer sales of diverse farm and food products grown in New York State.

A total of $1,000,000 is available under this RFA. Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Applicants may request between $25,000 and $50,000, and funds will be disbursed as reimbursements, with an option for an upfront payment of up to 25%. Applications will only be accepted online via the Statewide Financial System (SFS) by 3:00 p.m. on May 27, 2025. No faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will be accepted.

Eligible applicants include registered not-for-profit organizations, local or municipal governments, business improvement districts, public benefit corporations, Indian tribal organizations, and public educational institutions that operate or support farmers’ markets. For-profit entities may apply but are not eligible for prequalification. Community-led groups may apply in partnership with an eligible fiscal sponsor. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2025, and those with existing open contracts under previous FMRG rounds are not eligible.

Eligible costs include personnel, contractor services, outreach and marketing, physical improvements, and necessary materials and supplies. A maximum of 50% of the grant may be used for salary or space/utilities, and electronic equipment purchases require a 50% cost share. Matching funds are not otherwise required.

Applications must include a detailed work plan and budget, alongside documentation supporting a history of market operations. The Department will also require quarterly compliance reporting related to Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOBs) participation.

For questions, applicants must contact Olivia Weeden at the Department of Agriculture and Markets before May 9, 2025. Queries and responses will be updated weekly on the Department’s website. The final awards will be announced on a rolling basis, as applications are reviewed and approved.