By Andi Anderson
The Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA) has awarded over $3.5 million in grants to 44 businesses, including two from Michigan. The grants aim to support small- and medium-sized dairy businesses by encouraging innovation, enhancing production capacity, and creating value-added products.
Michigan Recipients
Leelanau Cheese Company, based in Suttons Bay, has earned recognition for its cave-aged, European-style cheeses. Established in 1995, the company highlights Michigan’s rich agricultural heritage. With a $100,000 DBIA grant, they will upgrade equipment to boost production capacity and expand market reach.
Reny Picot - Old Europe Cheese, Inc., located in Benton Harbor, has been crafting artisan specialty cheeses since 1987. The $98,000 grant will support the reintroduction of sliced brie, capture lost sales, expand production, and create new job opportunities.
DBIA Grant Program
The Dairy Business Builder program, managed by DBIA, provides reimbursement grants of up to $100,000 to help dairy businesses diversify, innovate, and improve sustainability. Since its inception under the 2018 Farm Bill, DBIA has awarded over 250 grants, totalling $20 million, to businesses in the Midwest.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, DBIA aims to strengthen the dairy sector, supporting farmers and processors with technical assistance, education, and funding opportunities.
Impact on Michigan Dairy Industry
Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized the importance of these grants: “The support and investment of the DBIA allow Michigan’s $15 billion dairy sector to thrive, creating jobs and fostering innovation.”
The next DBIA grant application period opens in February 2025, offering more opportunities for dairy businesses to innovate and grow. For details, visit the DBIA website.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Michigan, General