Farmland Protection Staff Capacity, Round 1

The Farmland Protection Staff Capacity Grants Pilot Program, administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, offers a critical funding opportunity aimed at strengthening the organizational capacity of local entities involved in farmland protection. This initiative represents the state's first foray into directly supporting personnel expansion for land trusts and municipal agencies that hold agricultural conservation easements. Designed to bolster efforts in farmland preservation across New York, especially in regions that have not yet benefited from prior Farmland Protection Implementation Grants (FPIG), the program underscores the state’s commitment to sustaining viable agricultural lands and advancing local conservation goals. With a total funding pool of $1,000,000 derived from the Environmental Protection Fund, this competitive grant program allows eligible applicants—including counties, municipalities, soil and water conservation districts, and not-for-profit conservation organizations—to apply for awards of up to $300,000. The funding is limited to personnel costs and essential project-related expenses that directly support the planning and implementation of farmland protection projects. Eligible costs include employee wages and benefits, mileage reimbursement, one computer and mobile phone, training, and relevant supplies. Importantly, the grant program prohibits indirect costs, consultant fees, and costs incurred prior to the contract start date. Although cost sharing is not required, applicants are encouraged to contribute matching funds to enhance project capacity and competitiveness. Applicants may apply under one of two categories: (1) for the hiring of the first farmland protection-dedicated staff member at a newly formed land trust or conservancy established within the past three years, or (2) to expand the existing staff capacity of experienced organizations intending to accelerate the rate of farmland protection. Joint applications are permitted, with one organization designated as the project sponsor responsible for contract execution and reporting. All proposals must include a detailed Work Plan structured around a Project Activity Table provided in the RFP. This table outlines nine core objectives nested within three phases: service orientation, technical and internal relationship building, and implementation milestones such as project development and stewardship. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Statewide Financial System (SFS) Grants Management System (Vendor Portal), with a firm deadline of June 26, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. ET. The application process includes completing several required templates, including a Project Activity Table, Financial Worksheet, and Narrative Reporting Tool. Not-for-profit applicants must be prequalified in the SFS by the deadline to be considered. Questions regarding the RFP must be submitted in writing by May 1, 2026, and responses will be posted publicly by May 20, 2026. An informational webinar will be held on April 16, 2026. Proposals will be scored on farmland protection need, organizational readiness, work plan quality, and cost effectiveness, with a base maximum score of 200 points and up to 26 additional preference points available for matching funds, activity in underserved counties, and demonstration of previous success or collaboration. Awards will be announced by September 1, 2026, and all projects will follow a four-year contract term. However, the funded work must be completed within three years from the date of the new hire. Payment is milestone-based, beginning with a 25% advance and followed by successive payments upon submission and approval of annual reports and deliverables. The Department retains final authority on funding decisions and reserves rights to modify the RFP or reject proposals. All contract terms will adhere to the standard State of New York Contract for Grants, subject to approval by the State Attorney General and Comptroller. In addition, grantees must maintain compliance with worker compensation and disability insurance requirements and adhere to electronic payment procedures. This grant provides a unique opportunity to scale up the impact of farmland conservation by investing directly in the personnel required to make these long-term projects a success.

Submit a detailed Work Plan with SMART objectives; Include match funding to score preference points; Prioritize counties with no prior FPIG awards for bonus points.