The Connecticut Milk Promotion Board (CTMPB), under the administration of the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, has announced funding opportunities totaling up to $700,000 for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The funding aims to support programs that align with CTMPB’s vision of increasing milk and dairy product purchases and expanding access for consumers, retailers, institutions, and other outlets.
Seth Bahler, Chairman of the CTMPB and owner of Oakridge Dairy in Ellington, stated: “As a dairy farmer, every dollar we invest into the checkoff program helps fuel vital research that drives innovation in our industry. It supports efforts to improve the health and nutrition messaging of our products and empowers us to share that story with consumers.” He added that these investments are essential for ensuring a sustainable future for dairy farmers.
CTMPB plans to allocate up to $275,000 each for consumer nutrition education and multi-media marketing contracts, while $150,000 is designated for farmer engagement programs. The media marketing request for quotations was released earlier this year to vendors on the state marketing list, with responses currently under review.
Funding opportunities include partnerships aimed at increasing dairy consumption through consumer nutrition education and programs designed to engage dairy farmers in utilizing their checkoff dollars. Eligible applicants can apply across multiple program areas without restriction. Qualified entities encompass businesses, extension agencies, agricultural organizations, universities, educational institutions, research organizations, and contract media vendors.
The funding derives from dairy checkoff dollars established through the national dairy checkoff order. Projects must adhere to this order as outlined by CGS Sec. 22-authorizing CTMPB to distribute grant funds from Connecticut’s portion of checkoff dollars.
Further details on these funding opportunities are available at www.CTGrown.gov. Information about the Connecticut Milk Promotion Board can be found at CTDairy.org.
The Connecticut Milk Promotion Board was established in 2008 and consists of nine appointed members tasked with promoting Connecticut dairy farms and milk consumption through various programs.
For additional information about the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s mission or inquiries related to this announcement:
Rebecca Eddy
Rebecca.Eddy@ct.gov
860-573-0323
