Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives

Program Updates

The DBI grant application is open. Applications are due December 1, 2026.  Applications received after the due date will be subject to the Late, Non-Responsive, and Incomplete Applications Appeals Policy (pdf). For any questions related to DBI, contact IPPGrants@usda.gov.

The NOFO is a primary resource for information about the Dairy Business Innovation Initiative (DBI) Program. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review it carefully and follow its guidance.

Program Purpose

The Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives support dairy businesses in the development, production, marketing, and distribution of dairy products. DBI Initiatives provide direct technical assistance and subawards to dairy businesses, including niche dairy products, such as specialty cheese, or dairy products derived from the milk of a dairy animal, including cow, sheep, and goat milk.

These initiatives, eligible entities that host this program, specifically focus on:

  • Diversifying dairy product markets to reduce risk and develop higher value uses for dairy products.
  • Promoting business development that diversifies farmer income through processing and marketing innovation.
  • Encouraging the use of regional milk production.

Project Types

At least 50 percent of each initiative’s funds must be allocated to subawards to dairy businesses. DBI initiatives must provide nonmonetary direct technical assistance to dairy businesses, including business consulting, strategic planning, marketing, product innovation and development, distribution, etc. Subawards are to be focused on modernization, specialization, and grazing transition on dairy farms; value chain and commodity innovations and facility and process updates for dairy processors;  and product development, packaging, and marketing of dairy products.

Available Funding

Approximately $12.65 million will be available to fund DBI projects.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include the four initiatives competitively selected to fulfill the purpose of the program, which include the:

Cost Sharing or Matching

The program requires cost share contributions in an amount equal to 25 percent of the total Federal portion of the grant.

Funded projects

For more information, go to the DBI Awarded Grants webpage.

Additional Resources