By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has announced the opening of applications for the Dairy Profitability Enhancement Grant, a new funding opportunity designed to improve financial stability and sustainability for dairy farms across the state.
This program, known as the Dairy Profitability and Enhancement Program (DPEP), provides farms of all sizes with technical assistance, resources, and information to help strengthen long-term operations. The program is open to regional or statewide organizations that will deliver guidance directly to farms through individual support, team approaches, or other proven methods.
The grant aims to support dairy farmers in Minnesota by ensuring they have access to the tools needed to remain competitive and financially strong. Eligible projects must be located within the state and can only begin once grant contracts are signed.
Expenses that qualify under the program include staff time, travel, training, professional development, equipment, supplies, and program promotion. Out-of-state travel requires prior approval.
The state has allocated $500,000 per year for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Applicants may request between $25,000 and $500,000 for each year. Funding will help enhance dairy farm profitability while ensuring that farmers can continue to contribute to Minnesota’s strong agricultural economy.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture emphasized the importance of this opportunity, noting that technical assistance and financial support are essential for sustaining dairy farms into the future. Applications for the Dairy Profitability Enhancement Grant must be submitted by September 24, 2025, at 4 p.m. CT through the program’s webpage.
This initiative underscores Minnesota’s commitment to supporting dairy farmers and ensuring that agriculture continues to thrive as a cornerstone of the state’s economy.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Minnesota, Livestock, Dairy Cattle