UTICA, N.Y. — The Women’s Fund of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, in cooperation with Baird Private Wealth Management and the Griffiss Institute, is sponsoring four $5,000 grants to women in business in Herkimer and Oneida counties. The businesses must be at least 51 percent women-owned and in existence for at least one year.

“We are incredibly excited to offer this opportunity to women in our area for a second year in a row,” Women’s Fund Board President Janet Richmond said in a press release. “For more than 25 years, we have been able, through the generosity of our donors, to provide economic, educational, and growth opportunities for women and girls. The goal of this Women Investing in Women initiative is to continue to support women-owned businesses in our communities. We know women business owners are making a difference for women and families in our area and contributing to our region’s economy.”

The grant initiative began last year to celebrate 25 years of The Women’s Fund. In 2022, the organization received 58 grant applications.

“We are hoping we get an even greater response this year,” Ellen Rainey, board secretary and grants committee chair, said. “We have kept in touch with last year’s recipients, and they have all reported back how much the grant has helped enhance and expand their businesses.”

Applications are due by Sept. 29 and are available online at womensfundhoc.org. Grant funds may be used by women-owned businesses for equipment, hardware/software, consulting services, training, education, and marketing.