By Blake Jackson
The Center for Dairy Excellence is now accepting applications for its 2025-26 Dairy Decisions Consultants (DDC) Grant Program and the Transition/Transformation Team Grant Program.
These grants provide dairy producers the opportunity to work closely with professional consultants or advisory teams to address strategic business needs, plan for transitions, or implement major business transformations.
Funding is made possible through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the PA Dairymen’s Association, with grants available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“By working with respected consultants who have firsthand experience in different sectors of the dairy industry, dairy producers don’t have to make decisions alone. They have a sounding board and an outside perspective to help them make significant, strategically-sound business decisions that shape the future of their dairy farms,” said Melissa Anderson, Programs and Operations Manager at the Center for Dairy Excellence.
“These teams and consultants can help farms navigate everything from permitting and regulations to communication between family members and the legal process for setting up an LLC.”
The DDC Grant pairs farm families with professional consultants who provide one-on-one support in seven strategic areas: Employee Management & Communication, Business Planning & Structure, Product Marketing & Labeling, Direct Marketing, Animal Welfare, Financial Management, and Pre-Farm Transition.
Farms can receive up to $4,500 to work with one of more than 21 consultants listed by the Center. Producers may also propose their own consultant for approval. Eligible farms must have at least 35 lactating cows or raise more than 100 dairy heifers and may apply for the DDC grant once every three years.
The Transition and Transformation Team Grants allow producers to establish advisory teams to develop succession plans or guide business transformation projects. Transition grants can provide up to $3,500 for succession planning, business structure changes, or partnerships, while Transformation grants provide up to $3,500 to plan and execute significant business changes, excluding manure storage improvements.
Limited grants are available, and a $100 application fee is required. For more information or to apply, visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/grants or contact Melissa Anderson at 717-788-0296 or manderson@centerfordairyexcellence.org.
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Categories: Pennsylvania, Education, Livestock, Dairy Cattle