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Dairy processors need to apply by February 21 to take advantage of the Grow Wisconsin Dairy 30x20 Processor Grant. This new grant from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) can be used for operational changes that will improve production and profitability.

Grants will be given up to $50,000 per proposal. The funds can be used to develop a new innovation or address an existing concern in the processing facility.

Applicants must operate or plan to operate a licensed dairy processing plant in Wisconsin. Applicants must also provide at least 20 percent of the total grant award as a matching contribution.

The Grow Wisconsin Dairy 30x20 Initiative offers grants to farmers and processors as part of its overall goal to ensure the long-term vitality of the state's dairy industry and meet the growing demand of the marketplace. A group of dairy stakeholders met with DATCP staff last October to develop this new grant and discuss industry priorities.

Applicants are encouraged to create proposals that encourage collaboration or could generate insights that would benefit the entire industry. Examples of projects could be dairy plant modernization, expansion, food safety assistance, staff training or professional consultation services to develop new processes.

The application is available at GrowWisconsinDairy.wi.gov. For more information, call 855-WI DAIRY (855-943-2479) or email [email protected]. The toll-free number is also available throughout the year to connect farmers and processors with available resources and technical assistance.[[In-content Ad]]

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