Utica Awards $166,741 in grants to 12 Minority and Women-Owned Businesses

May 28, 2025

UTICA, NY – Mayor Galime, in cooperation with the Department of Urban and Economic Development (UED) is providing over $165,000 in funding to support 12 local businesses. This funding was made available to woman- and minority-owned businesses with five or fewer employees that are located within the City of Utica. Federal regulations require that either the business owner qualify as low- to moderate-income at time of award or at least one job be created that is available to persons of low- to moderate-income. 

The program was funded through the City’s 2024-2025 allocation of federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.  Awards ranged from a minimum of $5,000 to a maximum of $15,000 and can be used for the purchase of capital assets such as machinery, equipment inventory, or for working capital.  Awardees will be required to complete a training program through the Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center.

“Small businesses are the backbone of any thriving community, including Utica.  Given the diversity of our city, I have long felt that it was important to offer financial assistance to emerging entrepreneurs and business start-ups,” said Mayor Galime.

Business / Owner Amount

Roosters

Javon Pratt $15,000

Tint Goat

Ya Za Lay $15,000

Birthing & Beginnings

Iriele Chery $15,000

FMN Creative

Francesca Orsomarso $15,000

The Lotus Garden

Chenda Phou $15,000

Reset Grab & Go

Desrey King $15,000

Utica Caribbean Market

Rijah Judah $15,000

A-List Beauty Supply-Salon

Alisha Gains-Porter $15,000

The Blue Pearl Sales

Marissa Fiorentino $9,541

Bloom Nutrition Solutions

Alex Nicolette $15,000

Harding Family Daycare

Elvia Alvarez $15,000

CNY Spine &  Rehab

Julia Jaikin $7,200