Farmers
Farmers are the foundation of the Dairy Protein Institute.
DPI was created to ensure producers are not only contributors to innovation—but direct beneficiaries of it. By connecting farmers to research, industry, and commercialization opportunities, DPI helps build a stronger, more resilient future for dairy.
Whether you’re interested in innovation, new revenue opportunities, or simply staying connected to what’s next for the industry, DPI is built to work for farmers.
Why DPI Exists for Farmers
For decades, dairy innovation has moved forward—but too often without returning value to the people who make it possible. DPI was founded to change that.
We believe:
Farmers deserve a seat at the innovation table
Producers should share in the value created by new technologies and products
Innovation should strengthen—not bypass—the farm
DPI exists to ensure dairy producers are active participants in shaping the future of the industry, not passive observers.
How DPI Works With Farmers
DPI supports farmers in multiple ways—whether directly or through broader ecosystem impact.
Equitable Participation in Innovation
Farmers can participate as shareholders in DPI, gaining ownership, influence, and access to value created through commercialization.
Visibility Into Emerging Opportunities
DPI provides insight into new technologies, ingredients, and processes shaping dairy’s future across food, nutrition, wellness, and beyond.
Optional Participation in Projects
When relevant, farmers may choose to engage in pilot projects, trials, or innovation initiatives tied to on-farm challenges or new opportunities.
Farmer-Centered Governance
Identify, vet, and advance innovations that support differentiation, performance, and growth.
What Farmers Gain
Long-Term Value Creation
Shared returns from commercialized innovation
New income opportunities beyond traditional milk markets
Industry Insight & Connection
Awareness of trends, technologies, and applications impacting dairy
Connection to researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners
A Stronger Dairy Future
Innovation that supports sustainability, efficiency, and resilience
A system designed to benefit producers of all sizes
DPI is designed to support equitable participation, regardless of herd size or operation type.
How Farmers Can Get Involved
There are multiple ways for farmers to engage with DPI:
Become a Farmer Shareholder and gain ownership in DPI’s innovation pipeline
Stay informed about emerging projects and opportunities
Participate optionally in innovation initiatives aligned with your interests
Engage with the ecosystem through gatherings and updates
No technical background or research experience is required—just a belief in building a stronger future for dairy.
DPI is not a processor, brand, or research institution—it is a farmer-backed innovation hub. Our role is to connect the dots between ideas, science, and markets while ensuring farmers remain central to the value created.
Innovation is reshaping the dairy industry.
DPI exists to make sure farmers help guide that change—and benefit from it.
The future of dairy should work for producers. We’re building it together.
