Dairy Business Innovation Initiative Grant

The Pacific Coast Coalition Dairy Business Innovation Initiative (PCC-DBII) is now accepting applications for Round 6 of its grant funding cycle, with proposals due by October 31, 2025. This program supports dairy producers and dairy processing businesses in advancing innovative strategies for market diversification, income generation, and regional milk utilization. The initiative is funded in part by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), though final funding levels remain contingent on the resolution of the current federal government shutdown and the execution of a contract between the USDA AMS and the Fresno State Foundation. The total available funding will range from $155,550 to $500,550. This variance is due to a pending USDA allocation that, if released, will increase the total grant funds. All applicants will be considered, with priority given to proposals that focus on the use and promotion of regional milk production systems, known as ""milk sheds."" First-time applicants are especially encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted through the PCC-DBII portal by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on October 31, 2025. Applicants are invited to attend a Q&A session via Zoom scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025, from 11:00 to 11:45 a.m. Following submission, the review process will take place from November 1–30, 2025, with an anticipated start date of December 1, 2025, depending on contractual clearance. All awarded funds must be fully expended by July 31, 2026. The program focuses on three primary objectives set by USDA AMS: diversifying dairy product markets to mitigate risk and enhance value; promoting innovative business development that increases farmer income through processing and marketing; and fostering regional milk production systems. Applicants should clearly outline how their proposal addresses these goals and be prepared to execute their project within the set funding timeline. For more information or assistance, applicants may contact the PCC-DBII at dairypacificcoast@mail.fresnostate.edu. Additional funding streams through the initiative's Internship and Technical Assistance programs are also available, and previously funded projects from Rounds 1 through 5 are listed on the PCC-DBII site for reference.

Emphasize regional milk use; submit early due to potential federal delays; highlight innovation and market impact; prioritize measurable outcomes