The Wisconsin Cranberry Board (WCB) announced the commitment of $577,138 in grant funding for 2025 research, education and communications initiatives focused on advancing the Wisconsin cranberry industry.
Established in 1983, the WCB represents more than 250 licensed cranberry producers statewide. The seven-member board, made up of growers, oversees an estimated $400,000–$500,000 in annual funding generated from a 10-cent-per-barrel assessment fee. These funds are reinvested into industry innovation, grower education and the promotion of Wisconsin cranberries in domestic and global markets.
During its 2025 budget meeting held on March 13, the board approved funding for nine research projects and five education and communication programs. The announcement comes as Wisconsin leads the nation’s cranberry production for the 30th consecutive year.
The research budget totaled $273,848, including $36,000 in contributions from the Cranberry Institute, Ocean Spray and Mariani Packing Co. These funds will be leveraged alongside support and research from University of Wisconsin College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service, University of Wisconsin Division of Extension, Wisconsin Cranberry Research and Education Foundation, University of Massachusetts (UMASS), UMASS Cranberry Research Station and Great Lakes Weather Service.
To learn more about Wisconsin’s cranberry industry, click here.
