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New York State Senator Michael Nozzolio today announced $1 million in state funding to assist new farmers and New York State's growing agriculture industry. Last year, the successful New York State New Farmers Grant Fund awarded $610,000 to 19 farms across the state.

"Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, not only in the Finger Lakes but statewide. Virtually every business, family and individual in our region directly or indirectly depends on agriculture, the single largest job producing enterprise in New York State," said Senator Mike Nozzolio.

The New Farmers Grant Fund will provide grants of up to 50 percent of the total project costs. Funds provided will be a minimum of $15,000 and maximum of $50,000, the remaining 50 percent of the project cost will be matched by the recipient of the grant. The Fund is open to New York farmers in the first ten years of having a farm operation of 150 acres or less.

"The New York State Farmers Grant Fund aids farmers who are just starting their businesses.  By providing new farmers with the resources they need to be successful, we can create opportunities for job growth and continue to expand our agricultural markets beyond New York State," concluded Senator Nozzolio.

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