Earlier this month, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship launched the new Choose Iowa Dairy Innovation Grant Program. Eligible dairy producers in the State have until Friday, February 9 to submit an application.

The program, which was authorized during last year’s legislative session, was created to increase on-farm dairy processing, reduce farm labor costs, and expand the availability of Iowa dairy products for consumers. The cost-share grants will match up to $100,000 per project, and help dairies invest in such things as pasteurization equipment, processing vats, packaging and labeling products, robots, health monitoring, automated feeding systems, or cleaning assistance. Funds are not eligible to cover start-up costs, advertising, public relations, salaries or benefits, existing debt, or any expenses incurred prior to awarding the grant.

Successful applicants must be located in Iowa, have fewer than 50 employees, and be in good standing with regulatory agencies. Dairies must also be inspected by the Iowa Department of Agriculture. For more details about the Choose Iowa Dairy Innovation Program, or to apply, click here.