The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has opened applications for the Dairy Profitability Enhancement Grant, a new initiative aimed at improving financial stability and long-term sustainability for dairy farms across the state. This program, formally known as the Dairy Profitability and Enhancement Program (DPEP), provides technical assistance, resources, and guidance to farms of all sizes, helping them strengthen operations through individual support, team-based approaches, and other proven methods.
The grant is available to regional or statewide organizations that work directly with dairy farms, ensuring that farmers have access to the tools and knowledge necessary to remain competitive and financially resilient. Eligible projects must be located within Minnesota and can only commence after grant contracts are signed.
Funding may cover expenses such as staff time, travel, training, professional development, equipment, supplies, and program promotion, though out-of-state travel requires prior approval. The state has allocated $500,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with applicants able to request between $25,000 and $500,000 per year. This support is designed to enhance farm profitability and help sustain Minnesota’s agricultural economy.
The MDA highlighted the importance of technical assistance and financial support in sustaining the dairy sector, emphasizing that these resources are critical for ensuring the continued success of dairy farms. Applications for the Dairy Profitability Enhancement Grant are due by September 24, 2025, at 4 p.m. CT through the program’s webpage. This initiative reflects Minnesota’s ongoing commitment to supporting its dairy farmers and maintaining agriculture as a key pillar of the state’s economy.
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