Alternative funding streams have become important to Vermont dairy operations, often supporting access to technology, improvements to equipment or infrastructure, or opportunities to diversify. Given the volatility of the milk market, every dollar counts. Competitive grants and programs available in the Northeast may assist in improving environmental outcomes – especially water quality, support animal wellbeing and comfort improvements, or help to upgrade out-of-date systems. Navigating the organizations that facilitate these funding opportunities - as well as the guidelines and applications associated with them - can be a challenge. We have recently updated our Funding Opportunities for Dairy & Crop Operations resource to help address this challenge. View individual funding opportunity details “at-a-glance” and check out the clickable links to learn more about organizations that offer business support, competitive grants, or other programs.
Current and Upcoming Funding Opportunities
The Food Animal Concerns Trust is now accepting applications for the Fund-a-farmer Welfare Improvement Grant until January 3, 2026. The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center is accepting applications for the Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant until December 4, 2025. The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative is accepting applications for the Business Enhancement Grant until December 11, 2025. The Northeast SARE Farmer Grant Program is accepting applications until December 9, 2025. These applications are no small lift and require time, energy, quotes, and letters of support. The NOFA Vermont Family Farmer of the Month Award program will begin accepting applications in December 2025 for March-June 2026 awards.
For more information or assistance with identifying which funding opportunities might be a good fit for you, contact Amber Machia at amber.machia@uvm.edu.