Seward Churns Up Funding For Mohawk Valley Small Business

ILION, 07/02/14 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced that a $50,000 economic development grant he secured will assist with equipment purchases and job creation at Herkimer Foods in Ilion. 

“Herkimer Foods is a true success story and the continued growth of this family-run business here in the Mohawk Valley is tremendous news,” said Senator Seward.  “This economic development grant is a key ingredient that will help introduce more people to Original Herkimer Cheese while adding a facelift and new jobs at the Ilion home of this storied product and its’ tasty successors.”

The capital funding secured by Senator Seward will be used to assist in the expansion of Herkimer Foods growing on-line sales and marketing efforts.  Additionally, a new line of products supported by the “Chutter ® Grill & Marketplace” concept will be announced in the near future.  Once the upgrades are complete, Herkimer Foods will add several new employees.

Herkimer Foods Vice President Robert Basloe said, “Herkimer Foods has evolved to meet changing market demands throughout our history, and we are excited to venture in a new direction thanks to this grant.  By adding new technology and innovative products, we expect to generate increased demand for our products nationally and create new job opportunities for the people of Herkimer County.  Senator Seward’s assistance and guidance has been extremely helpful in securing this new funding.  He is one of very few elected representatives who back up their words with action in championing the interest and needs of small business in upstate New York.”

“Manufacturing jobs are once again on the rise in the Mohawk Valley and Herkimer Foods is a major reason why.  Additionally, the combination of a family-run business that makes the most of New York dairy products is a winning recipe.  This expansion project will enhance our region’s reputation as a manufacturing center and help serve as a foundation for future growth,” Seward concluded.

Herkimer Foods –  Original Herkimer County Cheese Company – was founded in 1949 by Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon Basloe. Since that time, the Basloes and their three sons have earned a national reputation for their finely-crafted artisan cheeses, carrying the proud Herkimer County tradition forward into the 21st Century.

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