United Industrial Textile Products wins WRC grant

Date: 1/18/2010

By Tom Relihan

Staff Intern



WEST SPRINGFIELD United Industrial Textile Products, located in West Springfield, which specializes in making custom aerospace and industrial covers, has been selected by West of the River Chamber of Commerce (WRC) as one of the recipients of its $500 WRC Small Business Advertising Grant.

The funding is designed to support small business members of the WRC during the current trying economic climate. The money must be spent on services from advertising and media members of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield.

"The whole point of the grant was to add value to our members by providing them with funds to advertise with during the current economic conditions," Erin Corriveau, director of the WRC, said. "It's a double benefit as the funds must be used with a chamber member as well, therefore stimulating the economy again."

The contest had a total of 14 winners, seven from Agawam and seven from West Springfield, all of which were awarded a $500 grant a total of $7,000. The winners were chosen through a drawing. A company was eligible as long as they were a member of the chamber and fit the criteria.

"We couldn't be more pleased with the outcome and are happy to provide our members with this opportunity," Corriveau said.

She added that she is unsure of whether or not the contest will be an annual event.

"I think it would be great to be able to continue it but the annual budget must be reviewed each year before that determination can be made," Corriveau explained.

Wayne Perry, owner of United Industrial Textile Products, said, "We feel very good about receiving the grant. I think it will have a big impact on our boat cover sales with the upcoming boat show."