ALBANY COUNTY — Farmers looking to grow their business now have access to an $8.5 million grant pool through the New York State Grown & Certified Infrastructure, Technology, Research and Development program.

Of the $8.5 million available through the program, $2.55 million will be awarded to projects within the Capital, Mohawk Valley, and North Country regions. 

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard Ball said in a press release that the money, administered by the New York Farm Viability Institute, will “provide funding for much-needed infrastructure and equipment and support innovative practices that will help our farms and agribusinesses to meet the needs and demands of today’s marketplace.”

The $8.5 million will be awarded to owners of businesses that are, or are eligible to become, a part of the NYS Grown & Certified program who submit applications related to infrastructure and technology-related projects, the release says. 

“The NYS G&C ITRD grant program seeks to strengthen the businesses that produce, process, or distribute NYS Grown & Certified food or beverage products,” the release says. “All projects selected for funding through the Infrastructure and Technology track must implement new and innovative practices or approaches to meet growing industry needs and consumer demands. 

“Additionally, all projects must have a direct and timely benefit to NYS Grown & Certified participants and significance to the region. Projects will focus on distribution capacity enhancement; processing and packaging; or production automation and labor efficiency.”

Proposals can range from $20,000 to $250,000 and are due Feb. 28, 2025. The application and more information on the grant can be found at nyfvi.com.