The Schoharie County Industrial Development Agency has applied for a $328,646 Empire State Development grant that would help Beekman 1802 build a 12,000 square-foot warehouse in its hometown of Sharon Springs.
The ESD grant could be for up to 20 percent of the project’s cost, which is estimated at more than $1.64 million, including property acquisition and construction.
The application was submitted in June.
IDA Chief Executive Officer Ron Filmer said funding likely won’t be announced till November or December, but he’s been told that the application looks good.
Beekman 1802 has outgrown its warehouse space on Route 20 and has been unsuccessful in locating additional space locally—where founders Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge have said they want to keep the jobs.
According to the IDA, Carver Cos. is a potential developer for the building and is working with Beekman 1802 reps on building plans; the building would be leased to Beekman and terms are still being negotiated.
It’s expected to retain 20 jobs and create 10 new ones.
Talks regarding possible sites on Route 20 are continuing.
In addition to submitting the ESD application, the IDA is also researching other outside funding sources and could also have a role in negotiating or granting a PILOT for the project.