Friday, March 2, 2018             

Media Contacts: Rick Hummell, 608-224-5041rickhummell@wisconsin.gov

or Bill Cosh, Communications Director, 608-224-5020William2.Cosh@wisconsin.gov

MADISON – Wisconsin dairy processors are invited to apply for DATCP Dairy Processor Grants. The grants are intended to foster innovation, improve profitability and sustain the long-term viability of Wisconsin’s dairy processing facilities. Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is accepting proposals through April 13, 2018.

“The demand for quality Wisconsin dairy products continues to grow around the world,” said Kathy Schmitt, director of DATCP’s Agriculture and Food Center. “To meet the demand, dairy processors need to be innovative, efficient and adaptable. They need to be able to meet a number of regulatory requirements. These grants are designed to help them do so.”

The Dairy Processor Grant is customizable for each processor and can be used to hire consultants to address a wide range of business needs including food safety, staff training or modernization. Eligible applicants must operate a licensed dairy processing plant located in Wisconsin which is engaged in pasteurizing, processing or manufacturing milk or dairy products. Recipients will be chosen through a competitive selection process.

A total grant up to $50,000 is available per dairy processor per year. The dairy processor is required to provide a match of at least 20 percent of the grant amount.

Find application materials at https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Growing_WI/DairyDevelopment.aspx Anyone having additional questions can contact Juli Speck at 608-224-5134 or juli.speck@Wisconsin.gov.

Wisconsin’s dairy industry contributes $43.4 billion annually to the economy. DATCP’s Agriculture and Food Center provides services to the dairy industry and others sectors including business planning, financial planning and technical assistance. Learn more at https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Growing_WI/FoodAndAgCenterOverview.aspx

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