Minnesota Department of Agriculture

 

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) will award up to $220,000 to eligible schools and early childcare institutions to increase students’ access to Minnesota dairy. The MDA’s Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation (AGRI) Milk Cooler Grant program provides grant funding to schools for milk coolers and milk dispensing equipment.

“Dairy is a great source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Children are more likely to become lifelong consumers of nutritious milk and other dairy products if they have access to it in their school,” said Assistant Commissioner Patrice Bailey. “Our goal at the MDA is three-fold: To invest in education institutions across the state, to keep Minnesota students healthy and strong, and to benefit Minnesota’s farmers.”

Schools and other educational institutions that purchase milk coolers for their meal programs are eligible to apply for up to $1,500 per proposal. A maximum of three proposals will be accepted for each organization or school district. Eligible costs include the cost of the equipment and associated installation expenses.

Applications for equipment grants must be submitted by 4 p.m. on April 17, 2020. For more information and to apply, please visit www.mda.state.mn.us/milkcooler.