Dairy Processor Modernization Grant Opens Soon

Submitted by tim on Mon, 06/08/2026 - 09:21

Pre-applications for the Dairy Processor Modernization Grant open June 25!

Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets Offered by the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, this grant helps fund equipment for dairy processing and packaging to modernize production. Projects should boost processing capacity for local milk, strengthen business viability, and/or meet consumer demand for regional dairy products.

Projects can focus on improving product quality, increasing production, enhancing efficiency, upgrading existing products or launching new ones. Having technical assistance from a service provider or business planner will strengthen your application.

This year’s application process has two stages. Pre-applications open June 25, and successful pre-applicants will be invited to submit full applications. Grants may range from $15,000 to $250,000, with a 25% match required. Approximately $1,000,000 is available for grants.

The Request for Applications will be available on June 9.

Learn more

Future-Ready Dairy Farm Tour Series
Join UVM Extension this summer for a farm tour series highlighting how Vermont dairy producers are adapting to stay efficient, profitable, and resilient. Each event features hands‑on learning, from forage irrigation using brown water to precision agriculture tools like robotic weeders and herd‑health monitoring systems. All events are free with prior registration. Events start June 25 and continue through September.

Learn more and save your spot

Supplemental Disaster Relief Program for Farmers
USDA has announced expanded support for producers through a second round of Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) payments. Eligible producers with approved applications for 2023–2024 natural disaster losses will receive an additional 35%, raising total payments to a 70% factor. USDA has also extended the SDRP Stage 1 and Stage 2 deadlines to August 12, giving producers more time to update applications.

Learn more

Hidden Brand Marketing Workshops

Ready to clarify the “why” behind your business? The Hidden Brand Workshop guides Vermont farm, food, and forest entrepreneurs through a 10‑week process to uncover purpose, voice, and brand direction. With live instruction, coaching, and a step‑by‑step workbook, you’ll leave with a complete brand foundation. The workshop runs August–October for only $129, thanks to funding from the Working Lands Entierprise Board. Space is limited to 20 participants.

Sign up now

Raising and Marketing Beef x Dairy Crossbred Animals

You’re invited to an upcoming educational series where Vermont Cattlemen will share information on raising beef x dairy crossbred terminal beef animals to evaluate the economic potential of building a Northeast‑based beef supply chain.

All events are free, and lunch will be provided at the in‑person sessions. The webinar is this Wednesday, June 10 and in-person events are happening June 25and 26.

Learn more

Upcoming Dates & Deadlines

July
7/15 - Capital Equipment Assistance Program application due

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View the VAAFM Grants Calendar