By Andi Anderson
Kuehnert Dairy in Fort Wayne, Indiana, recently clinched a significant stride in dairy innovation. They proudly announced securing a substantial $100,000 grant from the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA) for the establishment of a state-of-the-art cheese curd facility on their farm premises.
This pioneering initiative, orchestrated by the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance, a collaborative effort between the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) and the Center for Dairy Research (CDR), saw the allocation of grants totaling nearly $4 million to elevate farmstead operations and dairy processing businesses across the Midwest.
The grant will significantly bolster Kuehnert Dairy's venture into cheese curd manufacturing on their long-standing family-owned farm, which has flourished in Allen County for over 125 years. With a herd of over 300 cows, an established agritourism operation, and plans to unveil an on-farm retail site in early 2024, Kuehnert Dairy remains committed to fostering dairy innovation and community engagement.
Andrew Kuehnert, owner of Kuehnert Dairy, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the DBIA for recognizing their project among numerous contenders this year. This substantial financial boost is earmarked for procuring cheese-making equipment, crafting product packaging, and implementing strategic marketing and promotional campaigns.
The dairy's vision for farm-fresh cheese curds sprouts from identifying an unmet need for such dairy delights in Indiana. Their strategic plan encompasses retailing these sought-after products at their on-site store, partnering with local Fort Wayne grocers, and venturing into direct consumer sales through online platforms.
The Dairy Business Innovation Alliance's ongoing commitment through the Dairy Business Builder and Dairy Industry Impact grant programs seeks to fortify the dairy industry's growth. Through targeted support for small-to-medium-sized farmers and processors, these programs encourage diversification, value-added product creation, and enhanced export programs.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Dairy Cattle