Women in Networking (WIN), a progressive lead and networking group affiliated with the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce (GVCC), is pleased to announce their annual grant fundraising event and are seeking applicants for its annual WIN Entrepreneurial Grant.
This philanthropic program provides financial assistance to women in business, 18 years of age or older in the Greater Valley area in the towns of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton.
Since its inception in 2004, the WIN Grant has benefited 41 women owned businesses in the Valley with more than $44,000 in grants.
In 2007, the WIN Entrepreneurial Grant became a new named fund with the Valley Community Foundation allowing contributions to be made directly to this designated fund.
WIN raises money for the Grant program through its annual silent auction event. Local businesses and supporters are encouraged to participate through sponsorships and the donation of items for auction.
This year’s Autumn Harvest Brunch presented by Newtown Savings Bank is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 20 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Hyatt House, located at 830 Bridgeport Ave., Shelton. The cost per person is $40, which includes brunch, Mimosas & Bloody Marys, door prizes, and a silent auction.
Kate Zarro, WIN member, attorney, and 2015 Chair of the event offered, “We are grateful for the many local businesses, such as Newtown Savings Bank, that provide sponsorship and donated items to be auctioned. It is a fun time with great food, drink, prizes, and auction items.”
Tickets may be purchased from any WIN member, via the Chamber’s website at www.greatervalleychamber.com or by calling the GVCC at 203 – 925-4981.
Please make checks payable to the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber also accepts Discover, Visa, MasterCard or AMEX.
The WIN grant can be used for expenses to enhance the applicant’s current business or to start a new business. These expenses may include: equipment, tuition, books, transportation, business wardrobe or childcare necessary to reach the applicant’s career goals.
The minimum one-time grant is $500. Greater amounts may be awarded according to individual needs and funds available. Call the GVCC at (203) 925‑4981 for more information about the grant application, which can be downloaded from the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce website at www.greatervalleychamber.com and by clicking on the WIN link.
Grant applications must be postmarked by Friday, October 2, 2015. Applicants will be evaluated on a nondiscriminatory basis without consideration of race, national origin, religious affiliation or disability. Grant recipient(s) will be announced in December during the WIN holiday luncheon. Recipient(s) will also be invited to a complimentary one-year membership to the WIN Group.
