CHEVOO wins Whole Foods Local Producer Grant
CHEVOO, a Sonoma-based producer of marinated goat cheese, won Whole Foods Market Northern California’s Local Producer Grant for the Sonoma region.
Thirteen grants were awarded to small businesses in NorCal and Reno.
Grant monies were split between the winners from proceeds raised during Whole Foods’ July 20 “5% Day,” when the company donates 5% of all total sales on a given day to local beneficiaries, specifically producers of food, beverage and other retail items sold in store. `
CHEVOO was awarded $15,432.95 from the $200,628.41 raised on 5% day. They were awarded the grant by Working Solutions, a non-profit microlender based in San Francisco.
Gerard Tuck, CHEVOO’s Co-founder and CEO had followed the Local Producer Grant process for the past few years, and as a new business, it was a natural fit – they will use the grant to fund capital needs. “We are building a new production facility in Healdsburg…the Whole Foods Grant will help us realize this ambitious project.”
CHEVOO was selected as a recipient “because of its rapid growth in its first year of business, and its current investment in securing long-term production capabilities in Sonoma County.” The building of their Sonoma County production facility will also bring more jobs to local residents.
The goat cheese, which was marinated in the home of Gerard and Susan Tuck for many years, has become a party staple for many Sonoma Valley locals – including myself. It’s available at all local grocery stores.
My favorite is the smoked sea salt and rosemary, perfect with a simple cracker and a glass of bubbles. It also makes for a great melted cheese on meats or veggies on the grill, or a nice twist on the traditional feta salad topper.
Learn more about Whole Foods local producer support programs here and check out CHEVOO at chevoo.com.
