New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today announced that $350,000 is available through the Transportation for Youth to County and Local Fairs Competitive Grants Program. Now in its second round, this initiative funds transportation and related costs to bring participating youth groups, who may not otherwise be able, to visit their county and local fairs during the 2026 fair season. This initiative builds on Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to improve youth and agricultural programming at county fairs, enhance coordination between local fairs and The Great New York State Fair, and boost agricultural education statewide.
Commissioner Ball said, “Our county fairs are hubs for agricultural education. Recognizing this, our Transportation for Youth to County and Local Fairs Program is designed to help more young people from different backgrounds visit a fair and learn about agriculture, perhaps sparking an interest that will lead to a career. This program was a big success in its first year and I look forward to seeing it continue to grow in this second round.”
The 2026 Transportation for Youth to County and Local Fairs Competitive Grants Program aims to increase youth attendance at county and local fairs and enhance youth participation in, and appreciation of, agriculture and the domestic arts. Successful projects will showcase local agriculture and expose young people to the fair atmosphere creating meaningful, long-lasting memories. A total of $350,000 is available and applicants may apply for up to $25,000.
Eligible projects must involve organizing and providing transportation for youth to local and county fairs. Projects must focus on enhancing agricultural awareness and providing agricultural education to participants.
Source : ny.gov