Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a Kansas City, Kan.-based cooperative owned by dairy farm families, said it is investing in Mopro Nutrition LLC, a Birmingham, Mich.-based company that makes all-natural whole-milk Mopro Greek yogurt. The high-protein, low-sugar yogurt is infused with whey protein combined with probiotics. Mopro positions itself as a smarter replacement for protein bars, protein shakes and regular Greek yogurt.

Mopro Nutrition recently completed the 2018 Sprint Accelerator program, which is also sponsored by DFA. It is a 90-day immersive program that helps accelerate and grow startup businesses, DFA said.

“As a farmer-owned cooperative, DFA is continuously looking for innovative ways to bring dairy to consumers, and this investment in Mopro reflects that commitment,” said Monica Massey, senior vice president and chief of staff at DFA. “We think there’s a lot of growth potential with more natural, high-protein products and look forward to working with Mopro to help make them a household brand.”

Through this relationship, DFA and Mopro Nutrition will work together to increase product distribution and build brand awareness, DFA said.

“I am excited to work with DFA on a permanent basis,” said Michael Moran, founder, Mopro Nutrition. ”We developed a nice relationship during the accelerator program, and they share my vision for evolving the yogurt category and bringing the highest-quality and innovative, fresh nutrition products to the marketplace."