On June 1, New York State announced the opening of the 2026 Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) Initiative, with funding available through over 20 programs administered by numerous state agencies. Applications for this funding are accepted through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process, and the grant allocations are intended to improve the business climate and expand economic growth in New York.
The CFA process directly supports the REDC goals by streamlining and expediting the grant application process and promoting less bureaucracy in the way that state resources are allocated, ultimately resulting in greater efficiency to fulfill local needs. Multiple state funding sources can be accessed through one application, making the process quicker, easier, and more productive. Throughout the year, different funding programs become available to applicants; therefore, the CFA Portal should be checked regularly for updates and announcements about what is currently being offered.
Applications can be submitted through the CFA Portal, which is now open for the 2026 programs, with the deadline for applicable programs posted as Friday, July 31 at 4 p.m. Open enrollment programs are not subject to the July 31 deadline and will continue to accept applications until funds are exhausted. Check out the State’s regional workshops and live agency webinars page for information on upcoming forums hosted by the REDCs, which will allow interested parties to learn more about upcoming CFA programs and discuss potential projects with regional office and agency staff.
Walden’s grant writers have significant experience assisting municipalities with their applications to CFA programs – several of our clients have been awarded funding through various programs available in previous years. Contact us at 516-548-2974 to see how we can help you prepare applications to secure funding for one or more eligible projects during the 2026 CFA open enrollment period!