The Western New York Regional Economic Development Council (WNYREDC) is urging businesses, municipalities and nonprofits across Western New York to submit applications for a share of up to $60 million in Regional Council Capital Funds through New York State’s Consolidated Funding Application (CFA). The CFA deadline for programs that require it is Friday, July 31, 2026 at 4 p.m.
Who can apply and where to apply
Eligible applicants include businesses, municipalities and nonprofit organizations in the Western New York region (Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties). Applications for deadline‑enforced programs must be submitted through the CFA portal; open enrollment programs continue to accept applications until funds are exhausted.
Apply or view program details at the CFA portal: https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa/. Additional program guidance and the 2026 REDC guidebook are available at the Regional Councils site: https://regionalcouncils.ny.gov/. The Western New York strategic plan is posted here: WNYREDC Strategic Plan (PDF).
Purpose and priorities
The funding supports projects that align with the region’s strategic plan and state priorities, including downtown revitalization, rural infrastructure upgrades, business scaling and workforce development. WNYREDC co‑chairs Eric Reich and Steve Stoute are encouraging prospective applicants to finalize and submit proposals before the July 31 deadline.
The REDC initiative has previously awarded more than $9 billion to projects statewide through a community‑based competitive process; this year Western New York may receive a share of up to $60 million in Regional Council Capital Funds plus additional funding from more than 20 state programs.
WNY applicants with eligibility or guidance questions are directed to consult Empire State Development’s Western New York regional office and the CFA resources linked above.
