USDA Allocates $11M For Dairy Innovation Grants
The Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBI) grant program will have $11 million-plus to support dairy businesses, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Jan. 21.
The federal grant program backs four regional centers, such as the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA), covering initiatives that focus on developing small- and mid-sized dairy companies. It pays special attention to efforts that improve production, marketing and distribution.
Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA), which leads DBIA with the Center for Dairy Research (CDR), welcomed the award and shared that DBIA will receive $3.45 million. Grants will go toward product research and development, technical assistance, education, and direct grants for dairy businesses in DBIA’s 11-state region.
“This funding recognizes the success of our work to help processors and farmers adapt, innovate and grow in challenging times,” WCMA executive director John Umhoefer said. “Through DBIA, we’ve delivered more than $24 million in grants to dairy businesses across the Midwest, and this new award allows us to continue supporting small and mid-sized processors as they strengthen markets for milk and build long-term resilience.”
Added CDR senior director John Lucey: “The CDR is delighted to continue this partnership with the WCMA on the DBIA program, which has a proven track record of supporting innovation and growth for farmsteads and smaller dairy businesses throughout our region.”
International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) also applauded the USDA awarding more than $11 million in grant funds that will benefit the industry.
Said IDFA president and chief executive director Michael Dykes: “This funding, to be managed by the outstanding personnel with DBI centers at California State University, Fresno; the University of Tennessee; Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets; and the University of Wisconsin; will promote continued innovation in the dairy processing sector and will help industry members work together to address common challenges and create new market opportunities for healthy and nutritious dairy products.”
WCMA noted Congress will consider funding levels for DBII in the next Farm Bill, and said the association prioritizes advocating for dairy processors at the federal level.
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Source: Dairy Processing
