The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets has launched the Innovation in Dairy Processing & Packaging Grant to support research and development projects aimed at promoting innovation within the Northeast dairy processing sector. The grant offers awards ranging from $75,000 to $350,000 and targets projects that enhance packaging, processing solutions, or collaboration among dairy stakeholders.
The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets has announced the availability of funding through the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center for the Innovation in Dairy Processing & Packaging Grant. This initiative aims to foster research and development projects that promote innovation in dairy processing across the Northeast region.
The grant program supports projects that meet at least one of three primary goals: enhancing packaging initiatives, developing novel processing solutions, or increasing collaboration among industry stakeholders. Potential projects can encompass innovation in sourcing, alternative production methods, distribution and supply chain logistics, operations, and marketing strategies.
According to the agency, the funded projects will empower dairy processors to gain knowledge and implement systems that support informed, long-term business investments, ultimately yielding positive environmental and economic impacts. The focus is on creating alternatives to current industry standards, making projects applicable, scalable, and replicable for small to mid-sized dairy processors in the Northeast. The program aims to stimulate the local dairy economy and ensure its sustainability by addressing challenges faced by processors, such as rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and market competitiveness.
Grant awards will range from $75,000 to $350,000, with a 25% match requirement. The total funding available for the program is $1.5 million. Dairy processors interested in applying for this grant must submit their applications by October 31, 2024. In addition, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their projects align with the goals of promoting sustainability, improving product quality, and enhancing consumer engagement.
The agency also highlighted several other funding opportunities available to support the dairy industry. The Capital Equipment Assistance Program provides financial assistance to farms for purchasing equipment that reduces surface runoff of agricultural wastes, improves water quality, separates phosphorus from manure, and mitigates greenhouse gases. This program offers grants between $25,000 and $100,000, depending on the project type, with a 10% match requirement.
Additionally, the Vermont Family Farmer of the Month Award recognizes farmers who demonstrate environmental stewardship through sustainable practices. Awards for this program range from $10,000 to $12,000, supporting farmers who contribute to a resilient agricultural landscape.
To help dairy producers navigate these funding opportunities, the agency is hosting informational workshops. These sessions will cover available grants, application processes, and tips for developing competitive proposals. Workshops will take place in St. Albans and Middlebury, offering a chance for dairy producers to ask questions and network with other industry professionals.
For more information on these programs and to apply, interested parties can visit the https://agriculture.vermont.gov/
