Limited window to apply for CDE branding grant

Up to 11 grants will be awarded to fund marketing, brand and labeling development for producers who manufacture value-added dairy products. The funding, applications for which can be made by November 17, 2023, is designed to help producers to access private consulting resources in order to build their brand and to help cultivate the regional food economy, strengthen regional dairy food processing capacity, improve consumer access to locally-produced foods, and create and improve economic opportunities for individual dairy producers and food businesses.

The application process is open to value-added dairy businesses including farmers and small-scale companies based in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey. A $100 application fee is required but will be reimbursed if your application is not accepted.

If awarded a grant, producers will receive up to £3,750 to work with a consultant and up to $1,250 for direct implementation of the consultant’s recommendations. Funding should be used by May 31, 2024. 

This grant is made possible by the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, which is a USDA initiative, and through the Ag Excellence line within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania budget.

To find out more information about the program and the application process, visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org​.