Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that $185,000 has been awarded to establish a Brewing Microenterprise Program, beginning with four local businesses that will create 16 jobs.
75 people originally expressed interest in the ‘Brew IN Livingston' competition; eventually 15 finalists went through a business boot camp, which was a course that focused on the formation of a brewery business.
Four prize packages were awarded to three startups and one existing Livingston County business including Battle Street Brewery in Dansville, Mortalis Brewing Company in Avon, Quiet Storm Brewing in Geneseo and Original Stump Blower Ciderworks in Lakeville.
Those businesses will each receive a $35,000 grant for equipment and a low interest loan. Cuomo says the state has been trying to foster the craft beverage industry by cutting red tape and lowering costs.
The funding was awarded by New York State through the Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council and the region’s Finger Lakes Forward economic development initiative.
New York is now home to nearly 1,000 licensed wineries, breweries, distilleries and cideries
