Dairy Business Innovation Alliance Opens Applications for New Organic Grant Program
Organic dairy processors can apply now for new federal grants to help distribute their products to young consumers. Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and will be administered by the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA), a partnership between the Center for Dairy Research (CDR) and the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA).
“This new funding presents opportunities to continue strengthening the Midwest organic dairy industry by reaching the next generation of consumers. We’re grateful to USDA for this new infusion of support for an industry with a proven track record of growth and success,” said Danica Nilsestuen, WCMA’s Director of Sustainability & Grants.
DBIA will distribute $3.75 million in competitive grants to support the costs associated with the distribution of organic dairy products for students and young adults (ages 0-25) in institutional settings such as schools, colleges and youth organizations. Businesses operating anywhere in DBIA’s 11-state service region of Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are eligible to apply for funding.
Grant proposals must be submitted by 5:00 pm CT, February 21st.