The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets today announced that more than $2.25 million is now available to youth and county fairs across the State. Of that, $1.65 million is available as part of the Agricultural Fairgrounds Infrastructure Improvement Program (AFIIP). Funded through the New York State Budget, AFIIP provides eligible local fairs resources needed to help with agriculture-related improvements and renovation projects. In addition, the Agricultural Fairgrounds Advertising, Promotion, and Education Program (AFAPEP) makes available $625,000 for advertising, promotion, and education activities that will increase participation in and promotion of county and local fairs in New York State. Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State Address proposes additional support of county fairs in the upcoming budget as venues for kids as part of her “Unplug and Play” initiative. A total of $25 million has been dedicated to revitalizing county fairs since 2016.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Our county and local fairs provide an incredible opportunity for fairgoers, especially our young people, to directly connect with our farmers and producers to learn about agriculture. This infusion of funding for our local fairs, both announced today and as proposed by our Governor, is a testament to just how important our fairs are to our communities. They’re a gathering space that provides fun and affordable entertainment, that educates New Yorkers about where their food comes from and how its grown, and celebrates our rich agricultural traditions.”
Agricultural Fairgrounds Infrastructure Improvement Program
AFIIP funding can be used to build, repair, replace, acquire, or install fairground buildings, facilities or equipment that are used to house or promote agriculture. It can also include projects that repair or replace water systems, restrooms, and storm water management systems on the fairgrounds. More than two hundred local fair improvement projects awarded in previous rounds of the program have been completed or are getting underway.
Source : ny.gov