USDA Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives
By USDA AMS
Last reviewed: December 2025
Federal grant programs supporting dairy farm diversification, value-added processing, and business development through regional innovation centers.
The USDA Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives provide grants to dairy farmers and processors for activities that increase dairy farm diversification and profitability. The program operates through regional innovation centers that administer grants and provide technical assistance.
DBI grants support activities including dairy product development, on-farm processing equipment, marketing and promotion, business planning, and workforce development. Grants are available for individual farms and collaborative projects.
The program prioritizes underserved producers, new market development, and innovative approaches to dairy production and processing. Regional centers provide hands-on support for grant applications and project implementation.
Key Features
- Equipment Grants: Funding for processing and production equipment
- Business Planning: Grants for feasibility studies and business plans
- Marketing Support: Funding for market development and promotion
- Technical Assistance: Expert support through regional centers
- Training Programs: Workforce development and education grants
Advanced Features
- Collaborative Projects: Multi-farm and regional initiatives
- Export Development: International market development support
- Sustainability Focus: Environmental and climate-smart dairy
- Underserved Priority: Emphasis on new, beginning, and minority farmers
Ideal For
Farm Types: Dairy farms, Farmstead creameries, Value-added processors, Dairy startups
Competitive Advantages
What sets USDA Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives apart from alternatives:
- Non-repayable grant funding
- Expert technical assistance included
- Regional centers understand local needs
- Support for innovative diversification
- Leverages additional matching investments
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for USDA Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives:
USDA grants supporting dairy business development and innovation.
Pricing Model: Federal grant program
USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. Competitive application process. Contact regional DBIC center for opportunities.
Pros & Considerations
- Federal funding for dairy innovation
- Business development support
- Regional approach to dairy challenges
- Grant funding available
- Focus on value-added dairy
- Competitive application process
- Regional program variations
- Administrative requirements
- Funding cycles affect availability
Implementation & Setup
How to implement USDA Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: Grant cycles: 6-12 months from application to funding
Training & Support
Training and support options available for USDA Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives:
Support Channels:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating USDA Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives:
- What is your dairy diversification or value-added goal?
- Do you have a business plan for your project?
- What is your timeline for implementation?
- Can you provide matching funds if required?
- Which regional DBI center serves your area?