The New York State Canal Corporation and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor are offering competitive grant funding to support tourism, recreation, and events along the New York State Canal System, including canal waterways and Canalway Trail. Applications are open now through November 21, 2025.
The 2026 grants program will prioritize projects and events that are accessible to all community members, with a particular focus on addressing service and amenity gaps. Funding is open to counties, municipalities, units of local government, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized Native American tribes located within the Canalway Corridor.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “This grant program helps to bring even more people to our canals to connect with history and all that they offer. Supporting the many entities that engage with New York’s canals is one way that we can continue ensuring these vibrant waterways endure as we enter our third century of operation.”
Two virtual workshops held in September provided strategies for applicants to improve accessibility for their projects and events. Recordings are available online, and applicants are encouraged to incorporate the recommended strategies in their application.
Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor said, “On the heels of the Erie Canal’s Bicentennial, we are looking forward to supporting projects and events that will continue this historic waterway’s legacy into the next century and beyond.”
In 2025, 45 nonprofit organizations and municipalities received NYS Canal System Tourism Infrastructure and Event Grants totaling $255,000. The grants supported twelve tourism infrastructure and amenity improvements and 36 events.
For details and to apply, visit www.eriecanalway.org/resources/grants/.
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