Undeniably Dairy Grants Bring Dairy to Life
Midwest Dairy supports dairy farmers, dairy groups, and agricultural organizations through Undeniably Dairy Grants, designed to help bring great local dairy promotion ideas to life. These grants support bringing dairy to consumers, from on-farm events to local events that attract a global audience.
In 2025, Midwest Dairy awarded over $355,000 in grants to 136 recipients across the 10- state region. The supported efforts ranged from farm-based open houses and county fair exhibits to large-scale events that drew national and international audiences.
Black Soil Dairy - Iowa
Each year, thousands of cyclists head to Iowa for the world’s oldest, largest, and longest recreational bicycle touring event – the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI). In 2025, nearly 19,000 cyclists from all 50 states and 20 countries pedaled 406 miles across the state, traveling from western to eastern Iowa.
Dairy farmer Christina Zuiderveen of Black Soil Dairy brought dairy directly to the route. Located just three miles from the ride’s first breakfast stop, it was a natural fit for her farm to host a Milk and Cereal Bar that highlighted dairy’s nutritional benefits for athletes and fans. Along with a refreshing start to the day, visitors learned key nutrition facts, including that milk hydrates better than water. Zuiderveen also connected personally with attendees and media, sharing her dairy story and helping build trust in dairy. Altogether, this event reached an estimated 15,000 consumers.
Hammink Dairy - South Dakota
Dairy Fest is an annual three-day celebration designed to bring the community together through conversation, education, and hands-on experiences centered around the dairy industry. To help bring the event to life, Nicolien Hammink of Hammink Dairy leveraged an Undeniably Dairy Grant to create a free, family-friendly experience that highlights dairy’s journey from farm to table.
Throughout the weekend, attendees learn about dairy’s commitment to sustainability and the wholesome nutrition it provides, while enjoying engaging activities such as the “Picowsa Art Contest,” farm and plant tours, and interactive kids’ games. A featured highlight of the event is the “Got-Milk Gala,” where key community influencers gather to connect directly with dairy farmers and industry representatives. Guests enjoy a dairy inspired meal while gaining insight into modern dairy production and its impact on the local community.
Dairy Fest reached an estimated 1,400 consumers, strengthening trust and building meaningful connections between farmers and the families they serve.
An Undeniably Dairy Grant can help bring great promotions, events, and activities that promote dairy to life. Dairy farmers who contribute to the Midwest Dairy checkoff, organized dairy groups, and agriculture organizations in the 10-state region can apply for up to $5,000 in one calendar year. There are three funding cycles per year – March 1, May 1, and August 1. To learn more about Undeniably Dairy Grants, visit
www.MidwestDairy.com/UDGrants.
