Livermore, Calif. (February 1, 2023)—The Association of African American Vintners (AAAV) is celebrating Black History Month by accepting applications for its new Wine Entrepreneur Grant Program. The initiative will annually award $5,000 grants to Black-owned, AAAV-member businesses to positively impact their operations, marketing or innovation efforts. Five grants will be awarded in 2023. Details and the online application are available now at aaavintners.org—applications will be accepted through February 28.
Fundraising to support the AAAV Wine Entrepreneur Grant Program is underway now. To donate, visit https://givebutter.com/
Grant applicants must:
- Be current a AAAV member at the grower, vintner or negociant level
- Complete the online application by February 28, 2023
- Submit a 30- to 60-second video introducing their business and briefly describing how the AAAV Entrepreneur Grant could help it grow
From Vino Volo wine bars in airports across North America to Pasadena Wine Shop in Pasadena, Calif., businesses of all sizes are planning Black History Month events or tastings to elevate Black-owned wine brands and benefit AAAV. Follow AAAV on Instagram and Facebook for details.
“Black History Month is the perfect time for wine shops large and small to shine a light on Black winemakers and celebrate their success,” said Nicole Lalagüe, owner of Pasadena Wine Shop. “Whether it’s putting together Black winemaker-themed tasting events, or packaging a few bottles together as a gift set, there are so many easy ways to engage with your customer base. Customers are looking for ways to support Black-owned businesses in February more than ever.”
About the Association of African American Vintners
The mission of the Association of African American Vintners is to increase diversity in the wine industry, build awareness of Black winemakers and provide guidance and financial assistance to students from underrepresented minorities pursuing careers in the wine industry. Visit aaavintners.org for more information, to donate and to purchase many member wines.
