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Help Us Grow

Planting Seeds for the Future - New York State Agricultural Society Foundation

Application Guidelines

The New York State Agricultural Society Foundation (NYSASF) is a 501(c)(3) that supports the mission of the NYS Agricultural Society focusing on education, leadership development and recognition for future generations involved in the New York State food and agriculture industry.  Each year the NYSASF selects a focus area for their annual grant-making. 

Who is eligible?

The Foundation will provide financial support to organizations which are recognized as qualifying under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code serving New York State residents. The NYSASF anticipates making grants of up to $2,500.

Grant funds will be paid in a minimum of two installments, with 50% to be paid to initiate the approved project, and 50% after completion with submission of all final documentation.

Subject to the additional restrictions imposed on private foundations under the Internal Revenue Service, Foundation funds will not be used to support: individuals, political, religious or labor organizations; memberships in professional societies or trade associations; or the general operating funds of health care facilities.

No grants are made to individuals or for-profit organizations. The Foundation does not fund recurring operating costs unless it is for the programmatic start-up. The Foundation will not fund indirect (overhead) costs associated with sponsored projects.

What is the deadline and how do I apply?

Applications must be submitted by November 30 each year.

Questions should be directed to Ann Shephard at (315) 727-5449 or email ann@nysagsociety.org.

Finalists may be asked to participate in a discussion or a site visit to explain their organization and their proposal to the NYSASF Board. In addition, an interim and final report are required to illustrate the progress and outcomes of the grant.

What if my organization is not a recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt not-for-profit but our work is charitable in nature?

If the IRS does not currently recognize your organization as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit, you may identify a 501(c)(3) sponsor to act as your organization’s fiscal agent. The fiscal agent must be recognized as a publicly supported, charitable organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. One copy of the sponsoring organization’s IRS Letter of Determination showing 501(c)(3) status must be included with your proposal, along with one copy of the sponsor’s most recent annual financial statements (audited if available). The sponsoring organization’s chief executive officer must co-sign the grant application cover sheet. If a grant is approved, payment will be made to you through your fiscal agent.

Publicity and Media Coverage

The NYSASF will issue a press release about its grants after the awards are announced. Agencies are also asked to provide their own publicity after receiving a grant. The NYSASF appreciates photographs of funded projects to use in its publications.

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