New York dairy farmers and cooperatives are being encouraged to seize an unprecedented opportunity: over $21 million in funding is now available through the Dairy Modernization Grant Program to expand milk storage and streamline supply chain operations. Applications are open until 3 p.m. on February 14, 2025.
Launched as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s vision for bolstering New York’s agriculture sector, the grant program supports projects that improve on-farm milk storage, enhance transportation efficiency, and minimize milk waste during emergencies. Eligible applicants can receive between $50,000 and $250,000 to invest in infrastructure and technology upgrades, including milk silos, bulk storage tanks, glycol chillers, and advanced milk transfer systems.
Administered by the Farm and Food Growth Fund, this initiative is designed to address long-standing challenges in dairy logistics. Farmers can also use the grants to purchase milk transport tankers or upgrade cooling and loading systems—solutions that are critical to ensuring milk quality and supply chain resilience. For full details on eligibility and to access the application, visit ffgrowthfund.org/dairymodernization.
This program is part of a larger push to elevate New York’s agricultural sustainability and competitiveness. In the FY25 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul dedicated significant resources to the dairy industry, including funding for manufacturing projects and consumer education campaigns about New York dairy products. The budget also boosted the Environmental Protection Fund to $81.8 million, earmarking a portion for climate-focused agricultural programs like the Climate Resilient Farming grant initiative.
As New York prepares for the 2025 legislative session, dairy farmers can expect additional investments aimed at advancing climate-resilient practices. These measures reflect a long-term commitment to making New York’s dairy sector a model for sustainability and innovation.
Farmers and cooperatives interested in applying should act promptly. Application details and a helpful FAQ document can be found at ffgrowthfund.org/dairymodernization.
