By Andi Anderson
Michigan's dairy landscape receives a significant boost with the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA) announcing a slew of grants. A total of 41 grants, nearing $4 million, have been allocated across the Midwest to advance farmstead operations and dairy processing businesses. Among these beneficiaries are three dynamic Michigan-based companies.
MDARD Director Tim Boring emphasized the role of Michigan's dairy industry in contributing to local nutrition and the state's economic vitality. He highlighted the grants' impact on these three companies, amplifying their growth prospects through on-farm diversification, value-added product development, and elevated dairy export initiatives. These steps fortify the industry, enhancing its resilience and fostering innovation.
The selected Michigan companies encompass Protein Pints in Grand Rapids, MI, focused on popsicle novelties and athletic event catering expansion; Cream Cup Dairy in Bear Lake, MI, aiming to enlarge their hard ice cream line and sales reach; and Semifreddo LLC in Hart, MI, eyeing an expansion into Burrata production.
DBIA's Dairy Business Builder grant program, the source of these funds, stands as a significant pillar empowering small to medium-sized dairy enterprises. It targets diversification, value addition, and export enhancement, thereby strengthening the dairy industry's foundations.
Fueled by a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) award, DBIA strives to propel dairy business innovation, amplifying industry robustness and adaptability. The alliance invests in transformative research projects, converting dairy by-products into viable commercial offerings. Covering eleven states, including Michigan, DBIA plans to initiate a fresh round of Dairy Business Builder grants in February 2024.
For detailed information on DBIA initiatives and upcoming grant opportunities, visit their website.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-digitalvision
Categories: Michigan, Business, Livestock, Dairy Cattle