Great Lakes Wire

Michigan dairy farms and producers have an opportunity to seek financial support for their operations as the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA) begins accepting applications for the Dairy Business Builder Grant. This initiative is aimed at small and medium-sized dairy farmers, entrepreneurs, and processors in the Midwest, encouraging projects such as farm diversification, on-farm processing, value-added product creation, and marketing of dairy products for export.

"The dairy industry in Michigan continuously makes a large economic impact while providing nutritious products across the state," stated Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). "This funding will support growth and sustainability, so we're encouraging dairy farms, processors and producers to apply."

Since its inception through the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill, DBIA has allocated over $20 million in grants to more than 250 businesses within its Midwest service area. The current round offers reimbursement grants up to $100,000 each after a competitive review process.

In previous funding rounds, 44 businesses received over $3.5 million collectively. Among these were two Michigan companies: Leelanau Cheese Company and Reny Picot Old Europe Cheese, Inc.

Potential applicants are advised to attend a webinar scheduled for February 5th at 1 p.m. Central Time. Applications must be submitted by April 2nd at 5 p.m., with award announcements expected in late May.

Further details about grant opportunities can be found on the DBIA website.