DHCR Announces Approval of Economic Development Grants to Help Zotos International Expand, Create 50 New Jobs

Deborah VanAmerongen, Commissioner of the NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) today announced $516,000 in NYS Community Development Block Grant (NYS CDBG) awards to the City of Geneva to help Zotos International, Inc. expand and create 50 new full-time jobs, 35 of which will be available to low and moderate-income workers.

Zotos International is a professional beauty industry leader that manufactures and markets a full range of hair care, texture service and hair color options for salons and salon professionals. With 284 employees, Zotos is one of the largest employers in the City of Geneva. NYS CDBG grants will be used for machinery and equipment the company needs to develop a new aerosol production operation. Zotos will bring the production of aerosol products, blow molding, and snip tip caps in-house to support the growth of several product lines.

Governor David A. Paterson said, "Zotos International is a well-established company in Geneva. I congratulate Zotos on expanding operations and providing good jobs with healthcare and other benefits for working families."

DHCR Commissioner Deborah VanAmerongen said, "Since 1963, Zotos International has been a presence in Geneva and built a reputation as a solid employer and one of the city's largest manufacturing companies. We are proud to assist this company in its efforts to grow and bring their aerosol production line in-house. This grant will help Zotos International bring more jobs and more opportunities to Geneva."

The NYS CDBG program is federally funded and administered by DHCR's Office of Community Renewal. The program provides grants to small communities in order to: ensure decent affordable housing, provide services to the most vulnerable, create jobs and expand business opportunities, and improve community facilities and services.

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