Meet the 2026 Grantees
We’re thrilled to introduce our 2026 grant winners!
Now in its fourth year, our grant program remains dedicated to empowering regional hubs that drive local impact. This year is no different. We have groups joining us from South Carolina to Idaho to California. And, we’re excited for you to meet each of them.
We invite you to follow along as we introduce and highlight each of our grantees and share their stories over the next six months. Whether you’re looking to launch a new hub, evolve your current group, or prepare your own application for 2027, we hope these stories spark a way forward.
So, without further ado, meet our first grantee!
CNY Flower Collective
Based in Syracuse, NY
The Flower Collective of Central New York (FCCNY) is the region's first local flower wholesaler. The FCCNY was born out of the need to organize and consolidate the wholesale flower shopping experience in the greater Syracuse area.
The group now has 15 grower members in their collective and strong relationships with florists and designers that stretch from the 1000 Islands region all the way to the Finger Lakes.
In the past two seasons, they have built community within their group of growers, but also within the greater farmer-florist network of Central New York.
Their Mission
The group prides themselves on sourcing exclusively from local farms throughout the greater Syracuse area.
They aim to disrupt the traditional supply chain by connecting flower farmers directly to local florists, design professionals, and flower lovers.
It is their mission to not only provide outstanding products, but also to foster a deep sense of community, connection, and support among their members.
The Team
The collective is run by a team of four owners: Claire Collie, Stephanie Brainard, Samantha Ludlow, and Victoria Jabot.
The four women share a love for flowers, but also community. They were looking for a support system and network comprised of other growers. This was the inspiration for their mission, and their work continues to be fueled by a passion for connecting farmers.
Each of the four also runs their own individual farm where they produce flowers, as well as honey, herbs, veggies, and more.
Learn more about the team here!
Becoming a Rooted Grantee
When the group was asked how they felt about becoming grant recipients, they noted how the support will aid their growth.
"We are entering our third growing season and are outgrowing our hub space. We thank the Rooted Farmers team for granting us funds to expand our hub's cooler storage space this year. We anticipate next season we will need to find a new, larger home for the FCCNY, and are grateful for Rooted mentorship and guidance as we approach this business milestone."
The Rooted team has thoroughly enjoyed our initial coaching sessions with the group. We're excited to see where the collective will go from here and how Rooted can stand by their side and nurture their growth wherever possible.
Where Can You Find FCCNY?
You can connect with them on their Website or Instagram!
If you're local, we recommend attending their Local Fresh Flower Market every 3rd Saturday from June to October in Syracuse, NY. If you're a wholesale buyer, be sure to connect with them on Rooted. Their inventory goes live every Wednesday at 7 am. They have great shopping instructions available on their website!
