HVADC Client: Ronnybrook Farm

Rick Osofsky, owner of Ronnybrook Farm, credits HVADC with helping the dairy operation overcome funding challenges and expand their operations.

Ronnybrook Farm is celebrated throughout the Tri-State Area for its super-premium dairy products, earning top awards from Food Network, The New York Times, Huffington Post, Hudson Valley Magazine, Eataly NYC, World Dairy Expo, and more. Chances are you’ve enjoyed one of their highly-acclaimed milks in the signature glass bottle, a Creamline™ yogurt, eggnog, ice cream, sour cream, creme fraiche, kefir, or European-style butter.

Owned and operated by the Osofsky family for over 80 years, the farm is committed to producing dairy products the old-fashioned way – slow and easy. They have bred some of the most prized Holstein cows in the country and consistently strive to innovate and meet the growing demand for their delicious offerings.

"Last year, the farm faced a big challenge that threatened to slow its growth: the urgent need to upgrade its equipment."

Securing Funding for Expansion

To help fund the expansion of its business, Ronnybrook secured a grant in 2023 from the Northeast Dairy Business Innovations Center (NE-DBIC) for equipment upgrades.

The NE-DBIC grant provided 25 percent of the funding upfront, with the remaining 75 percent to be paid after the equipment was installed and operational. Ronnybrook needed the entire grant to buy and install the equipment, creating a significant hurdle.

Recognizing this gap, Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corporation (HVDAC) stepped in, providing a crucial bridge loan in 2024 from the HVADC Agribusiness Loan Fund Program to keep the farm's expansion on track.

Launched in 2018, the Agribusiness Loan Fund Program helps small agribusinesses access capital. The loan program supports their success while also improving the economic outlook for rural and surrounding communities.

Brian Zwieg is a consultant with HVADC. He provided technical assistance for both the NE-DBIC grant and the HVADC bridge loan, helping Ronnybrook clarify scope, research costs, make a budget, and craft a persuasive case for funding.

“Ronnybrook is a great example of an agricultural business that’s achieved success creating value-added products. They showed potential for growth and had some impressive opportunities, but they needed to upgrade their equipment,” said Zweig. “A lot of the equipment was from when they first started the business.”

A Longstanding Partnership for Growth

Ronnybrook Farm's story serves as an inspiring example of how HVADC empowers agribusinesses. By providing a combination of financial support, expert guidance, and a long-term partnership approach, HVADC equips farms with the tools they need to thrive.

Rick Osofsky, who owns Ronnybrook Farm along with his children, Kate and Peter, and nephew Daniel, reflected on the partnership’s history: “Working with HVADC has always been a very positive experience. The staff at HVADC are very familiar with all aspects of agriculture and take a personal interest in agricultural projects, including ours at Ronnybrook Farm.”

HVADC’s support for Ronnybrook Farm began years ago, with initiatives such as the Incubator Without Walls, FeedHV community food network, and Hudson Valley Bounty. This support is a hallmark of HVADC’s approach. It ensures that each project gets the attention and resources it needs to succeed.

Zwieg emphasized, "HVDC's commitment is not limited. You know, if you need help, HVADC helps." This philosophy translates into a long-term partnership that evolves alongside the farm's needs.

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

For agribusinesses considering a similar path, Zwieg offers valuable advice: "Businesses need to be prepared. Have your financial information in order, make sure your project is well-defined, and have a clear plan for the project's execution. You can’t expect a grant to solve all of your problems." Being organized makes applying easier and raises the chance of getting funding.

Looking ahead, Osofsky sees HVADC playing a crucial role in Ronnybrook Farm’s future plans.

“We are continually looking for ways to grow our business. We at Ronnybrook Farm are fortunate HVADC will be there to assist us. I would wholeheartedly recommend that anyone in agriculture reach out to HVADC."

For more information about the HVADC Agribusiness Loan Fund, visit https://www.hvadc.org/loans-and-grants-english