The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation runs a challenge grant program that awards research funds for projects that solve global health issues. In May, 2010, the foundation award a $100,000 grant to microbiologist David Mills in support of his research project. The project's aim is to study whether complex sugars in milk, a dairy product, can be used to prevent life-threatening diarrheal diseases in young children. You can apply for these grants at the Gates Foundation website.
The National Dairy Council, a nutrition research, education and communication organization, works with stakeholders to foster a healthier society. One of these efforts includes accepting research solicitations from researchers. Solicitations are accepted by the Dairy Research Institute, which contracts with researchers to complete selected research projects. Researchers receive funding for several years, depending on their project scope and cost. The Dairy Research Institute accepts proposals as part of three solicitation programs: Supplemental Support, Discovery and Program Area.
The Ohio Dairy Research Fund, part of the Ohio Dairy Producers Association, funds practical dairy research projects by voluntary dairy producer contributors. Grants have funded numerous projects since its launch in 1982, including projects involving milk quality, odor from dairy facilities, reproductive performance, environmental toxins and nutrition. Projects are completed at Ohio State University's campus after receiving approval by the Ohio Dairy Research Fund Committee.
Several international organization offer research grants that you can secure to engage in your research. For example, Dairy Innovation Australia funds private research organizations, research institutes, university and governmental organizations. This can be a useful route if your organizations is connected to Australia. Additionally, the University of Sydney welcome inquiries regarding financial sponsorship for projects that can train postgraduate students, fund specific projects or support the university's symposium.