Join the New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) for a regional listening session focused on the needs of New York’s grape growing and winemaking community. Lunch will be provided, so come hungry for both good food and conversation!

This is more than an information session—it’s a chance for us to hear from you. This is your opportunity to share challenges, regional needs, and ideas, to ask questions, and help shape statewide research and programs that will strengthen our industry’s future—together.

This session will also include a special presentation by Stefan Fleming, Director of Industry Development for New York State’s craft beverage and industrial hemp sectors. As the head of New York’s One Stop Shop for the craft beverage industry, Stefan will explain his role with state government and provide information on pertinent economic development incentives, and export and tourism opportunities. He will also provide updates to the state’s alcohol-related laws and regulations, answer frequently asked questions, and provide timely information that licensees should be aware of while operating a business in this highly regulated marketplace.

This visit will also include an overview of important NYWGF programs, including:

 2025-26 NYWGF-Funded Research

In the 2024-25 there was total of $647,188 in research projects funded. Of that $507,249 were used for viticulture-focused projects, $121,670 for enology, and $18,269 for other fruit product (making food products from concord grapes).

 NYWGF Sustainability Program

Sustainable vineyard practices are quickly becoming a baseline expectation for buyers of grapes, juice, and wine. Our goal is to ensure that New York’s industry is ready to meet this growing market demand. Learn how your vineyard can begin the journey toward sustainability certification through regionally defined standards.

 New York State Vineyard Survey

NYWGF is sponsoring the first comprehensive Vineyard Survey since 2011. Your participation is crucial—data collected will help shape future funding, promotional efforts, and strategic decisions that support vineyard and winery success across the state.

 NYWGF Membership Benefits

Discover how NYWGF supports growers and wineries and growers through cost-saving discounts, subsidies & grants, research & educational resources and marketing & promotion.

NYWGF is thankful to our partner, American National Insurance, for making this visit to the region possible. This public-private partnership showcases the impact that we can have when we work together towards a common goal.