Funding Opportunities for Kentucky Dairy Producers

KDDC administers and collaborates on several different programs that offer financial assistance to producers through grants and cost share opportunities. KDDC consultants regularly work with producers to participate in the programs listed below and can help producers navigate eligibility guidelines, applications, and post-funding requirements. 

KDDC's MILK 4.0- Genomics

KDDC's MILK 4.0 program is a 4-part program, with one aspect focused on genetic gain and includes a 50% cost share on genomics. Learn more about the program, including other aspects and program requirements, here.

KDDC's Beef on Dairy Initiative

KDDC's Beef on Dairy Initiative focuses on producing high-quality crossbred calves in Kentucky to promote a reliable industry that offers a diversified source of income for producers. This program offers a 50% cost share on beef semen or bulls. Click here to learn more about this program and requirements.

Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative Grants

The Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative grants are funded through the University of Tennessee with many collaborators throughout the southeast, including KDDC. This includes separate grant opportunities specifically for Farm Infrastructure Improvement, Precision Technology and Improvement, Dairy Business Planning, and Specialty Equipment Investment. In 2023, the Farm Infrastructure and Precision Technology applications were open during the spring grant cycle and the Dairy Business and Specialty Equipment grants were open during the fall grant cycle. More information for 2024 grants can be found here as it comes available or contact your KDDC consultant.

Other resources for funding opportunities specific to your area and operation can be found by working with your county extension, NRCS, or FSA offices. Opportunities offered through some locations include county ag improvement programs (CAIP) for cost sharing opportunities for on-farm improvements, environmental quality incentives program (EQIP) for financial and technical assistance, and a variety of USDA grant and loan programs. These programs may vary in different areas- work with your local offices to determine availability and eligibility.

The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development also provides excellent resources on funding opportunities and assists producers with a variety of grants. Find their information at www.kcard.info.
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The Kentucky Agricultural Finance Cooperation offers low-interest loan programs for producers. Find more information, visit their website here and work with your lending agency to complete applications.​