Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets

01/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/07/2024 20:16

NE-DBIC $1.2 Million Grant Program Invests in Northeast U.S. Dairy Processing

Grant to modernize and expand dairy processing capacity and use of regionally sourced milk

July 1, 2024 | Montpelier, VT- Dairy processors across the Northeast United States can now apply for the Dairy Processor Modernization Grant through the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC). With a total of $1.2 million in funding, this grant will fund specialized equipment to help processors expand capacity, increase efficiencies, and improve packaging.

Dairy processors play a vital role in regional food supply. Whether it's pasteurization for fluid milk sales or processing milk into cheese, yogurt, butter, and other dairy products, modernizing regional processing capacity leads to a more resilient dairy sector.

Along with bolstering the regional food system, projects from this grant will lead to workforce expansion, an increase in value of milk for farmers, and new partnerships across the dairy supply chain.

Grants will range from $15,000 to $350,000 witha 25% (cash or in-kind) match commitment required.

This grant is open to existing dairy processors in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Learn more about the grant on our website: https://nedairyinnovation.com/grants/dairy-processor-modernization-grant/

The NE-DBIC's investment and project strategy promotes innovation and resiliency for regional production of dairy products across an 11-state Northeast region. Hosted by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, the NE-DBIC is funded through the USDA-AMS.

For more information on NE-DBIC, visit:https://nedairyinnovation.com/