USDA revises grant matching requirements following dairy industry concerns

Photo: SDSU Extension USDA has revised matching requirements for its Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives program following concerns from dairy industry organizations. The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association announced Thursday that USDA will no longer require the program’s four regional centers to provide matching funds for federal grants or administrative activities. However, dairy farmers and processors receiving grants through the centers must contribute matching funds ranging from 10% to 25% of the federal funding requested. The original proposal required a 25% match more broadly, raising concerns that regional centers could struggle to continue operating. The program provides grants, technical assistance and business development support to dairy operations nationwide. USDA has allocated approximately $12.65 million for the 2026 program. The four centers operate in California, Tennessee, Vermont and Wisconsin. The revised application deadline is Jan. 4, 2027. NAFB news service