Franklin County Launches Frontier Harvest Fund
Franklin County Launches Frontier Harvest Fund to Boost Small Farms and Agritourism
New $300,000 Program Offers Grants to Cultivate Growth in the Region’s Agriculture Sector
FRANKLIN COUNTY, NY — The Franklin County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC), in partnership with Franklin County, is excited to announce the launch of the Frontier Harvest Fund, a new $300,000 grant program designed to cultivate growth for the region’s small farms, food producers, and agritourism businesses. Funded through the New York State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Microenterprise Program, the initiative will provide awards ranging from $5,000 to $35,000 to help local agricultural entrepreneurs expand their operations and thrive.
The Frontier Harvest Fund is geared toward small businesses that are strengthening Franklin County’s vibrant agriculture sector, particularly those focused on value-added products and services. This includes producers of fresh food, artisanal goods like soaps and flowers, and agritourism experiences such as farm-to-table events and workshops. Funds can be used for a wide range of business needs, including equipment, inventory (including livestock), marketing, salaries, and software.
Franklin County Legislative Chairperson Ed Lockwood said, “This program is about putting resources where they can make a real difference for our economy. Small farms and agritourism businesses don’t just create jobs—they attract visitors, generate tax revenue, and keep more dollars circulating here in Franklin County. The Frontier Harvest Fund gives these businesses the tools they need to grow, compete, and contribute even more to our local economy.”
“Agriculture is the backbone of our rural economy here in the Adirondack Frontier,” said Jeremy Evans, CEO of FCEDC. “The Frontier Harvest Fund is a direct investment in the people who work our land and create the unique local products and experiences that define our region and we are excited to partner with Franklin County on this project. By supporting our small farms and agritourism entrepreneurs, we’re cultivating a more resilient, locally-rooted economy from the ground up.”
To qualify, businesses must be a for-profit entity located in Franklin County with five or fewer employees (including owners). The program is designed to create economic opportunities and requires that applicants either create at least one full-time equivalent job for a low-to-moderate income (LMI) individual or that the business owner
qualifies as an LMI entrepreneur. Applicants must also provide a minimum 10% cash equity match and complete a state-approved entrepreneurial training program.
Those interested in applying can visit FCEDC’s website. The application materials will be available starting Monday, November 3rd. For full program details, including LMI income requirements, eligible expenses, and evaluation criteria, please visit https://adirondackfrontier.com/small-business/frontier-harvest-fund/.