Dairy Business Builder Grant Program

The Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA) is currently accepting applications for the Dairy Business Builder Grant, a reimbursement grant program aimed at promoting and supporting the dairy industry within an 11-state region. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering economic development and sustainability within the dairy sector, primarily through funding for new or existing dairy farms and dairy manufacturing or processing facilities. The program's goal is to strengthen the regional dairy economy by encouraging innovation and diversification. Target beneficiaries for this grant include new or existing dairy farms, and dairy manufacturing or processing facilities located in Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. These entities must be for-profit and have an EIN in good standing with the IRS. The program's impact goals are centered on promoting dairy farm diversification, creating value-added dairy products, enhancing the value of dairy commodities or by-products, and expanding export programs for dairy products, thereby ensuring a robust and evolving dairy industry. The DBIA grant program prioritizes projects that meet at least one of its stated goals. These include dairy farm diversification through product development, specialization, packaging, and marketing strategies; the creation of value-added dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and beverages; the enhancement of dairy commodity or by-product value, for example, by converting liquid whey permeate for human consumption; and the creation or expansion of dairy product export programs. For the Fall 2024 cycle, all export-related applications will be considered under the Dairy Industry Impact grant application, though companies can apply to both for different projects. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in diversified dairy offerings, a rise in the production and sales of value-added dairy products, innovative uses for dairy by-products, and expanded market access through export initiatives. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed, the reimbursement structure up to $100,000 per eligible expense implies a focus on tangible project completion and financial support for these developments. The strategic priorities of the DBIA, supported by the Center for Dairy Research and Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, are clearly to foster innovation, create new market opportunities, and enhance the overall economic viability of the dairy industry within the specified region.