Economic Development: FoodNerd awarded $115,000

As National Grid continues to advance Western New York’s revitalization, the utility has awarded $115,000 in economic development funding to food technology company FoodNerd Inc., to support growth at its Clarence manufacturing facility. 

This includes $100,000 through National Grid’s Capital Investment Incentive program and $15,000 from its Manufacturing Productivity Program. FoodNerd is expanding its 30,000-square-foot manufacturing facility to support the repositioning of its brand – which eventually will include new products – for broader distribution. It’s anticipated the company will need to hire more than 10 new positions. 

“Working with National Grid as an energy partner has been incredibly valuable to FoodNerd’s growth and success,” said Sharon Cryan, founder and CEO, FoodNerd. “Their team has gone above and beyond to ensure we feel supported as a business while helping us improve efficiency and reduce costs within our manufacturing operations. That support allows us to stay focused on what matters most - creating the highest quality foods possible for children and families.” 

Cryan added that while self-manufacturing can be challenging for emerging food brands, National Grid made her feel as if she wasn't navigating that journey alone. “Having them in our corner has helped us achieve our manufacturing goals faster and more efficiently than we could have on our own,” she said. “We are deeply grateful for their partnership, care, and continued support.”

“The FoodNerd grant was made through our Capital Investment Incentive program, which provides funds for qualifying customers who may be looking to offset costs associated with upgrading utility infrastructure as part of a business expansion or new construction project,” said National Grid Regional Director Ken Kujawa. “We work closely with our customers to learn their needs and how National Grid may be able to assist. FoodNerd is an excellent example where we can help a company to remain local and competitive, while strengthening a community and increasing the number of jobs.”

In addition to the grant, National Grid also provided FoodNerd $15,000 through its Manufacturing Productivity Program, an economic development initiative designed for manufacturers across National Grid's service area to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and grow their businesses. 

Since 2003, National Grid’s robust suite of 18 economic development grant programs has provided more than $154 million in assistance, helping to create or retain more than 67,000 jobs and supporting $11.7 billion in private and public investment across upstate New York. 

More information about National Grid’s suite of programs, including applications, is available at www.shovelready.com.