The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) today announced the release of its Request for Proposals (RFP) for research projects to be funded in Fiscal Year April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027. Proposals are due January 16, 2026.
Established in 1985, NYWGF administers state-backed funding for research that supports the long-term growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of New York’s wine and grape industry. Each year, the organization invests in research that addresses production challenges, explores new technologies, and strengthens industry resilience across all regions of the state.
This year’s application process includes both a written proposal and a new five-minute summary video, designed to streamline the February reporting session and improve reviewer accessibility.
To be considered, applicants must submit:
- Written proposal using the NYWGF Proposal Format
- Five-minute video presentation (MP4, 720p) summarizing the project in accessible, lay terminology
- Letters of support from collaborating institutions or stakeholders (if applicable)
- Disclosure of any alternative or complementary funding
- Detailed project budget
All materials are due electronically by January 16, 2026, to research@nywgf.org.
Video files should be uploaded via the designated submission link in the full RFP.
All funded projects must acknowledge NYWGF support in printed and digital materials. Final reports are due by March 31, 2027.
Researchers will also participate in a Q&A session with the NYWGF Research Committee on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 8:00–11:00 AM at Cornell AgriTech’s Jordan Hall Auditorium in Geneva, NY, with a hybrid Zoom option available.
Research priorities are identified annually through industry consultation and reflect the most urgent needs and strategic opportunities for New York’s grape and wine community.
VITICULTURE
Disease & Pest Management (including invasive species): Sustainable, efficient strategies that reduce resistance and increase climate resilience.
Mechanization & Precision Agriculture: Labor-saving, affordable canopy management and precision tools.
Sustainability: Improving soil health, nutrient efficiency, and water quality.
Floor & Weed Management: Reducing energy use and herbicide dependence.
Grape Cultivars & Clones: Evaluating performance across New York’s diverse regions.
ENOLOGY
Grape Cultivars & Clones: Evaluating wine quality potential of new/scion materials.
Sustainability: Energy efficiency, wastewater management, carbon reduction.
Wine Quality: Enhancing quality of hybrid and native grape wines.
Wine Analysis: Improving analytical efficiency for production settings.
Wine Microbiology: Exploring fermentation, microbiome impact, and bioprotection.
OTHER
Non-Fermented Value-Added Grape Products: Innovations in products derived from grape processing, including valorization of waste streams.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Evolving Consumer Preferences: Generational expectations around authenticity, sustainability, and experience.
Customer Awareness: Effective communication of New York wine quality and diversity.
Technology Advances: Tools for operational efficiency, compliance, and improved customer experience.
Customer Acceptance: Increasing understanding and appreciation of cold-hardy hybrid and native grape wines.
Full proposal templates, budget forms, and submission instructions are available at: newyorkwines.org/industry/research/researchers
Questions may be directed to:
Dana Alexander, Director of Operations
Email: danaalexander@nywgf.org
Phone: 315-924-3705