Seventeen Long Island aquaculture businesses have received more than $4 million in state grants to upgrade their fishing equipment and infrastructure.

The funding comes from a New York state program aimed at strengthening so-called “blue food” industries — such as seafood and shellfishing — to create sustainable, local food sources.

Richard Ball, commissioner of the state Department of Agriculture and Markets, visited Hampton Oyster Company in New Suffolk this week to announce the grants.

“Long Island has such a significant history. It’s rooted in agriculture — with shellfish, with hatchery operations,” Ball said.

Eric Koepele, president of the Long Island Oyster Growers Association, joined state officials and grant recipients at the event. He said the funding will have a ripple effect

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