NE-DBIC Opens $1 Million Grant for Northeast Dairy Farms

The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center is distributing $1,000,000 to dairy farmers in eleven states. The funds target modernization projects that improve farm viability, animal health, and milk quality. Vermont farmers can apply starting today.

Individual grants will range from $15,000 to $100,000. Applicants must provide a 25% match, either in cash or in-kind contributions. The program rejects projects that simply replace old equipment without addressing broader farm systems.

Successful proposals must demonstrate a systems-level approach to improvement. Projects that benefit multiple farms or involve collaboration with technical service providers may be more competitive. Eligible areas for funding include feed management, animal comfort, milking systems, and labor efficiency.

The application process has two distinct stages this year. Pre-applications are open from October 29 through December 17. A select group of applicants will receive invitations to submit full applications during the winter months. The program also supports new farmer engagement and cooperative milk production.

Eligible applicants include dairy farmers, producer associations, and milk buyers focused on on-farm production. Technical service providers may also apply on behalf of farmers. The funding is available in all eleven states served by the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center.

The eleven eligible states are Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center is hosted by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets. The center receives funding from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service.