Dairy Producer Grants

The Dairy Producer Grant Program is administered by the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA) to support established dairy operations in Missouri. The program is designed to promote the growth and efficiency of the dairy industry by providing partial funding for projects that enhance production capacity, improve operations, and support herd development. Eligible projects include the expansion of existing facilities, construction of new facilities, equipment purchases, investments in breeding and reproductive technologies, and herd expansion. MASBDA defines an established dairy as a business or farm involved in milking dairy animals and holding a Grade A permit issued by the State Milk Board. This grant offers a maximum award of $40,000 and requires a minimum 25% cash match from applicants. The funding covers up to 75% of eligible expenses. Applications will be competitively scored based on three primary criteria: credibility and merit, impact potential, and project timeliness. A project must achieve at least 60 points on a 100-point scale to be considered for funding. Eligible applicants include Missouri residents aged 18 and older, as well as cooperatives, businesses, or agricultural organizations operating a Missouri-based dairy. All applicants must be enrolled in E-Verify and able to provide proof of identity, citizenship, and Missouri residency. Applicants must submit a completed application by 3:00 p.m. on November 19, 2025. Submissions can be sent electronically or via hard copy. Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted. MASBDA reserves the right to audit recipients, adjust budgets, reject applications, and recover funds in cases of non-compliance or misrepresentation. Final reimbursement is contingent on submission of proof of eligible expenditures and cash match contributions. A final report is also required to confirm completion of project objectives. The grant program does not cover operational expenses such as payroll, insurance, supplies, or travel; reimbursement for expenses incurred before award date; land purchases; marketing; or certain types of vehicles and indirect costs. Projects must demonstrate clear alignment with the program's intent, and successful applicants will enter into a contract with MASBDA outlining approved expenditures and project scope. MASBDA staff will monitor project progress, and media releases may include basic project details post-award. This grant is a one-time opportunity for the FY2026 cycle and is not explicitly recurring. Applications are evaluated and selected based on merit and available funding. Interested applicants are encouraged to prepare detailed, realistic project plans and budgets, and to be prepared to provide bids or other verification for projected costs. Award decisions are final and not subject to appeal.

Prepare a detailed and realistic budget. Ensure E-Verify registration is complete before applying. Emphasize project credibility and timeliness.