On Tuesday, June 2, 2025, Governor Kathy Hochul announced nearly $21.6 million was awarded to 103 farms statewide through the Dairy Modernization Grant Program to support New York’s dairy industry. This funding will help dairy farmers and cooperatives invest in new equipment, expand storage capacity, and strengthen their operation, especially as they face extreme weather events.

Governor Hochul stated, “New York’s dairy industry is the backbone of our agricultural economy, supporting thousands of jobs across our rural communities. With this $21.6 million investment through the Dairy Modernization Grant Program, we’re giving hardworking dairy farmers and cooperatives the tools they need to grow, innovate and lead in a changing market. This is how we honor our agricultural legacy – by making sure it has a strong and sustainable future.”

Farm and Food Growth Fund President and CEO Todd Erling said, “New York State is the country’s fifth largest dairy producing state, with almost 3,000 farms. The majority are family-run and generational operations which this grant program largely benefits. Ensuring efficient and updated infrastructures will not only strengthen and safeguard the supply chain but will also help to build forward-looking opportunities for the next generation of dairy farmers. Thanks to our hard-working farm families, and with the support of Governor Hochul, New York continues to be a leader in our regional food system.”