Applications open today, February 3, for the latest round of Dairy Business Builder grants, a program administered by the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA). Designed to support small- to medium-sized dairy farmers, manufacturers, and processors, the grants are available to businesses in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The program is managed by the Center for Dairy Research (CDR) and the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA).
According to the press release, the reimbursement grants, which can provide up to $100,000 per recipient, aim to help dairy businesses diversify on-farm activities, create value-added products, enhance dairy byproducts, and develop or expand dairy export programs.
“Since the creation of DBIA, we’ve seen many innovative proposals that have advanced farm and processing businesses, brought new products to market, and bolstered the Midwest dairy industry overall. We look forward to reviewing this next round of applications,” said John Umhoefer, WCMA Executive Director.
“These funds will help small dairy businesses grow and innovate, which is critical for their success in today’s ever-changing markets,” added Dr. John Lucey, CDR Director.
Application materials for the Dairy Business Builder grants are now available online at DBIA’s newly redesigned website, here. The updated site features a refreshed logo and branding, detailed information about the Alliance’s grant programs and technical assistance, and success stories from past grant recipients.
To assist prospective applicants, DBIA staff will host an informational webinar on Wednesday, February 5, at 1:00 p.m. (CT). The webinar will be recorded and made available throughout the application period. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. (CT) on April 2, with successful applicants notified by late May.
This initiative continues to provide critical support to the Midwest dairy industry, fostering growth and innovation across the region.
