ITHACA, NY – Seeking innovators for its next Dairy Runway cohort, Cornell University's Center for Regional Economic Advancement (CREA) announced it is once again accepting applications for its free entrepreneurship program.

CREA and the Northeast Dairy Foods Research Center (NEDFRC) debuted the program in 2023, with a focus on early-stage ideas for value-added dairy products.

"We're thrilled to provide this resource to New York's dairy community,” said Jenn Smith, director of food and ag startup programs at CREA. “Already, we've witnessed dairy entrepreneurs launch innovative companies and make a tangible impact in the region after completing Dairy Runway.”

Smith added: "Dairy is foundational to our state's economy and our rural communities, and introducing new dairy products that respond to today's consumer preferences is key to keeping this sector strong."

The program combines a virtual curriculum with training in developing prototypes, as well as business coaching. CREA said the five-week course features self-directed online learning, Zoom-based class meetings and one-on-one instructor meetings. Plus, industry experts provide insights during virtual classes.

CREA shared that Dairy Runway, through two cohorts, has supported entrepreneurs developing flavored milks, savory yogurts and other novel dairy products.

"We look forward to supporting our third cohort of dairy innovators by providing the entrepreneurship knowledge, skills and training needed to bring a product to market successfully," said Dr. Samuel Alcaine, director of the NEDFRC and associate professor at Cornell's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. "Innovation is key to a thriving dairy community, so it's important that New York's dairy farmers and other food entrepreneurs have the tools they need to take their ideas from concept to reality."

The program is funded by the New York State Dairy Promotion Order. Participants who go through the virtual course then move on to a kitchen incubator phase, with fully funded access to Cronell’s food processing facilities and support from the university’s food science experts, as they focus on product testing.

Innovators may apply online for the third Dairy Runway cohort through June 5. The program is open to entrepreneurs in New York and New England who are committed to using New York-produced cow milk. CREA said up to 10 participants will be selected for the next cohort, which begins in July. 

Dairy Runway also plans to host information sessions for interested innovators, with registration available online.