Dairy Innovation: $16M Fund to Boost New York's Dairy Industry

The Dairy Promotion Order (DPO) Advisory Board in New York State has initiated a Request for Applications (RFA) as part of a substantial $16 million checkoff fund aimed at promoting and researching dairy products. The RFA invites proposals for projects that focus on marketing, promoting, and researching New York-produced milk and dairy products. The primary objectives are to diversify the range of dairy products available and stimulate consumer demand for New York dairy products.

Entities eligible for funding include non-profit organizations, research institutions, and private businesses unaffiliated with the DPO Advisory Board. Proposals should not endorse specific brands or trade names.

To be considered for funding, applications must be submitted to the Department of Agriculture and Markets by August 20, 2023. Further details and application forms can be found on the Department's website.

The funding, made possible through the New York State Dairy Promotion Order Act, originates from dairy producers and aims to assist farmers and processors in expanding their domestic and international market reach.

During their recent meeting, the DPO Advisory Board outlined ten goals for 2024, including increasing the consumption of New York milk and dairy products among youth, improving the image of dairy products and farming practices, and enhancing communication with stakeholders. Other goals include boosting sales of U.S.-produced dairy products abroad, targeting marketing efforts towards Generation Z, and conducting research to develop new dairy products and enhance safety and quality.

The DPO Advisory Board, appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, advises on the allocation of funds and recommends promotion, research, and dairy product projects. With approximately 3,200 dairy farms and nearly 16 billion pounds of milk produced annually, New York State's dairy industry plays a vital role in the economy and is a leading contributor to the agricultural sector.