Cornell Opens Applications for Dairy Innovation Program

The program targets entrepreneurs working with cow, goat, or sheep milk across an 11-state region. Funded by the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, the initiative provides a structured pathway for participants to refine business models and prototype new goods. Over the past three years, the collaboration between the Center for Regional Economic Advancement and the Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has supported 30 teams of innovators.

Participants progress through a two-phase curriculum. First, a seven-week virtual course covers the business model canvas and customer discovery through expert-led discussions and one-on-one coaching. The second phase moves into Cornell’s food processing facilities, where entrepreneurs work with specialists to test formulations and finalize prototypes. The program concludes with a virtual pitch session designed to prepare founders for real-world market entry.

Applications remain open until September 16, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET. Cornell plans to select up to six teams to begin the virtual coursework in October. Interested candidates can attend one of three information sessions scheduled throughout the summer to review program requirements and resource access.