By Andi Anderson
The Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA) has announced $3.5 million in grants to 44 recipients, including two Michigan-based companies—Leelanau Cheese Company and Reny Picot - Old Europe Cheese, Inc. These grants aim to foster innovation and growth in the dairy industry across the Midwest.
Michigan Awardees
Leelanau Cheese Company: Established in 1995 in Suttons Bay, Leelanau Cheese is known for its award-winning European-style cheeses. With a $100,000 DBIA grant, the company plans to upgrade equipment, expand production capacity, and reach new markets, further highlighting Michigan’s agricultural richness.
Reny Picot - Old Europe Cheese, Inc.: Operating in Benton Harbor since 1987, Reny Picot specializes in artisan handcrafted cheeses sourced from sustainable Michigan dairies. Their $98,000 grant will help reintroduce sliced brie, expand production capacity, recover lost sales, and create new jobs.
DBIA’s Impact
The DBIA, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, supports small to medium-sized dairy businesses through its Dairy Business Builder program. The initiative provides reimbursement grants of up to $100,000 to encourage value-added product creation, by-product enhancement, and dairy export growth. Since its launch in 2018, the program has awarded over 250 grants worth more than $20 million, benefiting dairy businesses across 11 states, including Michigan.
Supporting Dairy Innovation
Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, praised the program, stating, “Dairy businesses like Leelanau Cheese Company and Reny Picot are vital to Michigan’s $15 billion dairy sector.”
In addition to funding, DBIA offers technical assistance and educational resources to farmers and processors, ensuring the region’s dairy industry remains resilient and innovative.
The next DBIA grant application period opens in February 2025, providing more opportunities for dairy businesses to thrive.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle