This program supports public events and festivals that encourage exploration and enjoyment of the wealth of cultural, heritage, nature, and recreational offerings within New York State’s canal corridor.
Uses of Funds
Events may be, but are not limited to:
- Major events such as system-wide or regional celebrations focused on the NYS Canal System (canal waterways and Canalway Trail)
- Events that focus on the heritage and culture of the canals
- Events that promote recreation, especially when they encourage use of the NYS Canal System (Canal waterways and Canalway Trails) – e.g., races, bicycling and paddling tours, cross country skiing, rowing, birding, glamping/camping, and fishing. Consider four-season uses.
- Events that actively include or serve people of all ages and abilities.
- Events that draw a wide and diverse audience to the canal, including new users and people from underrepresented populations
- Events that promote performance-based art including theater and music
- Events that support the Canalway Challenge and 1st Mile Challenge
- Events that support overnight stays
- Events that highlight the canals as unique linear recreational assets
AWARD RANGE: $500 to $3,000
Funding will be advanced upon signed agreement.
Eligibility
- Events must occur in 2027.
- Funding is open to counties, municipalities, units of local government, not-for-profit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes located within the boundaries of the National Heritage Corridor (green shaded area on map).
- Proposed events may include reasonable fees.
- Applicants who are not in good standing for other projects funded by the NYS Canal Corporation or ECNHC are not eligible for funding.
INELIGIBLE USES OF FUNDS
- Staff time
- Food and beverages
- Advertising expenses for the organization, though advertising expenses specific to your event or festival are allowed
- Regular education programs, e.g., school programs and summer camps
Funding Requirements
Permitting: Awardees are responsible for identifying and obtaining the necessary required permits. Events taking place on NYSCC property require a permit. Anticipate a 4-week minimum time frame for the New York State Canal Corporation permit process. Please plan accordingly to allow time for permit review and approval.
Matching Funds: The requested grant amount must be at least equally matched by the applicant, clearly demonstrated in the project budget. NYS Canal Corporation CFA grants cannot be used as match. Matching funds may include cash and in-kind donations, including volunteer hours, which must be recorded and sent with the final report. The current estimated value of volunteer time may be found here.
Recognition: Sponsorship must be recognized on the event website and promotional materials. Guidelines supplied for use of logos must be followed. Recommended credit:
This event is funded in part through the generous support of the New York State Canal Corporation and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Accessibility, Key Planning Principles: To improve accessibility and ensure events are inclusive and welcoming to all potential participants, applicants are required to watch the 2026 NYS Canal System Event Grants Accessibility Workshop and Information Session before submitting an application. Where feasible, applicants should also incorporate the Rochester Accessible Adventures Event Planning Key Principles into their project planning. This one-page guide offers practical, low- and no-cost strategies for planning inclusive events, with considerations for parking, wayfinding, paths of travel, restrooms, and program participation. Utilizing these principles can help ensure that everyone has a meaningful opportunity to fully engage and participate in an event.
Final Report: Awardees must submit a Financial Report (provided by Grantors) within 30 days of the festival or event or by October 31, 2025, whichever comes first. Public attendance numbers, photos, and copies of event materials that document proper recognition must be included. Awardees that fail to submit timely reports may be ineligible for future funding.
