MADISON, WIS. – The Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA) soon will begin accepting applications for two grant programs, which in total will provide up to $4 million to dairy businesses in the Midwest.

The Dairy Business Builder grant program, DBIA shared, supports diversifying on-farm activities, creating value-added products and enhancing dairy byproducts. The Dairy Industry Impact grant program aids projects related to exports and sustainability.

Administered by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association and Center for Dairy Research (CDR), DBIA said the application process opens Aug. 19, with $3 million available through the Dairy Business Builder program and another $1 million obtainable via the Dairy Industry Impact program.

The grants are designed to help small- to medium-sized dairy manufacturers, processors and farmers. DBIA noted that a business intending to apply for both grant programs is eligible to receive up to $100,000 from each one.

Dairy businesses within DBIA’s 11-state region – Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin – are eligible to apply for the grants.

Beginning Aug. 19, application materials for the grant will be accessible via the CDR website. DBIA shared that applications are due by Oct. 23 and an informational webinar is set for Aug. 21.