New York dairy industry to receive $16 million boost for promotion and research projects supporting local farmers and processors

New York – The future of New York’s dairy industry is getting a major push forward, as the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets announced that over $16 million will be made available to support dairy-focused promotion and research projects across the state. The Dairy Promotion Order (DPO) Advisory Board, which oversees the allocation of these funds, is now inviting eligible organizations to submit proposals for initiatives that aim to strengthen and expand the reach of New York dairy.

This funding initiative, part of the state’s annual dairy checkoff program, is aimed at supporting the creation, development, and implementation of projects that promote New York-produced fluid milk and dairy products. It also encourages research projects that can identify new opportunities in the market or improve the quality and safety of dairy products. The ultimate goal: boost consumer demand and broaden the dairy industry’s reach both locally and internationally.

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball underscored the importance of this program for the state’s dairy economy. “The work of the Dairy Promotion Order Advisory Board is critical to the continued research and promotion of the State’s dairy industry, and to the education of consumers about the importance of dairy to our economy, our communities, and our health,” said Ball. “I encourage all eligible applicants to apply to this funding opportunity to help advance New York’s dairy industry through important research and promotion projects.”

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Eligible applicants for the funding include nonprofit organizations, private companies, and research institutions. However, applicants must not be affiliated with the DPO Advisory Board and may not submit proposals promoting specific brands or trade names. The deadline to submit applications is August 15, 2025. Details on how to apply, along with application forms, can be found on the Department’s website at agriculture.ny.gov/dairy/dairy-promotion-order.

The funds themselves are collected directly from dairy producers in New York State under the Dairy Promotion Order Act. This checkoff program was created to help dairy farmers support marketing efforts and research aimed at increasing the competitiveness and visibility of their products. Every dollar is intended to come back to the industry, whether through new product development, education campaigns, or expanded access to markets.

At its most recent meeting on June 17, the DPO Advisory Board laid out ten key goals to guide the allocation of this year’s funding and steer the strategic direction of the dairy industry for 2026. These goals reflect a wide-ranging approach to supporting the dairy sector, covering everything from product innovation to community outreach and environmental sustainability.

Among the top priorities is a focus on increasing dairy consumption among young people, particularly in school breakfast and lunch programs. The Board also wants to emphasize the uniqueness of New York’s dairy products across all parts of the food supply chain—including through online and curbside sales—and improve public perception of the dairy industry and the practices of local producers.

Additional goals include boosting exports of New York-produced milk and dairy products, highlighting the environmental stewardship efforts of dairy farms, and participating in national efforts to increase overall dairy consumption. The Board is also encouraging proposals that target diverse communities through inclusive marketing strategies.

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One of the most crucial focus areas is research. The DPO is seeking proposals for research that could lead to the development of new dairy products, improvements in product quality, and a better understanding of the challenges facing the industry. Another goal is to develop studies that can help consumers understand the dairy sector’s economic importance and guide the growth of dairy processing across the state.

The DPO Advisory Board, composed of ten New York milk producers appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture, serves as the key advisory body for deciding how these funds are distributed. Each board member serves a three-year term and brings firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing the dairy sector. The Advisory Board has played a pivotal role in guiding the state’s investment in dairy promotion since its founding in May 1972, when it was established at the request of dairy producers.

The $16 million made available this year is one of the largest single pools of funding dedicated solely to supporting dairy in New York State. With ongoing pressure from shifting consumer habits, rising production costs, and competition from non-dairy alternatives, this funding could not come at a more important time for the industry.

In recent years, New York has remained one of the top dairy-producing states in the nation, with the sector generating billions of dollars in economic activity annually. However, producers and processors alike continue to face headwinds—from supply chain disruptions to labor shortages and changing market demands. Programs like the Dairy Promotion Order aim to provide the resources necessary for the industry to innovate, adapt, and continue to thrive.

As Commissioner Ball and the DPO Advisory Board emphasized, this round of funding represents not just a financial boost but a coordinated effort to ensure the long-term health and relevance of New York’s dairy industry. Whether through better marketing, smarter research, or more strategic outreach, the projects supported by this initiative are expected to have a direct impact on dairy farmers, local communities, and consumers throughout the state.

For organizations interested in applying or learning more about the funding process, complete application guidelines and contact information are available at agriculture.ny.gov/dairy/dairy-promotion-order. Questions can also be directed to [email protected].

With the deadline fast approaching, the call is out for new ideas and bold initiatives that can help New York’s dairy industry grow stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable—now and into the future.