The information below has been supplied by dairy marketers and other industry organizations. It has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hoard’s Dairyman.

The United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) continues to accept applications for the Dairy Promotion Grant Program. The program provides funding for Michigan dairy producers, dairy farm employees, and dairy cooperative employees to conduct promotional events in their local communities that support the dairy industry. The primary goal for any event is to increase awareness of dairy products and the dairy industry, especially among the non-agricultural consumers. Every event plays a role in teaching, sharing and enhancing knowledge about dairy, and encouraging the inspiration of new ideas.

Promotional events funded by the grant must focus on at least one of the following criteria: enhancing awareness of the nutritional and health benefits that come from including dairy products as part of a balanced diet; increasing knowledge about and awareness of the dairy industry; and/or advancing the image of the dairy industry and fostering public trust. Examples of promotional events include, but are not limited to: health expos; farm tours and special events; community-based events, activities or programs; presentations, displays and exhibits; and more.

Applicants must be associated with the production of cow’s milk as a Michigan dairy producer, dairy farm employee or an employee of a milk marketing cooperative. A total of $75,000 is available this calendar year to fund local promotion events. Individuals may apply for multiple grants; however, no more than $1,500 can be received in a grant year by a single farm entity.

To apply for and learn more about the Dairy Promotion Grants, visit https://www.milkmeansmore.org/dairy-producers/dairy-grant-program/.

About the United Dairy Industry of Michigan

The United Dairy Industry of Michigan is the umbrella organization for the Dairy Council of Michigan and the American Dairy Association of Michigan. On behalf of Michigan’s dairy farm families, these non-profit organizations provide science-based nutrition information to, and in collaboration with, a variety of stakeholders committed to fostering a healthier society, including health professionals, educators, school nutrition directors, academia, industry, consumers and media. For more information, visit MilkMeansMore.org.