Backgrounder
Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament, Thunder Bay-Rainy River, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced a FedNor investment of $848,748 in support of three strategic initiatives that will help advanced manufacturers scale up, enhance productivity and increase sales. Once complete, these projects are expected to help create 22 high-quality jobs in the City of Thunder Bay.
Thunder Bay initiatives supported by FedNor
Nu-Tech Metals Sales & Service Ltd.
$382,250
A non-repayable investment of $382,250 provided through FedNor's Steel and Aluminum Initiative will enable Nu-Tech Metals to purchase a state-of-the-art fiber laser cutting machine, improve production, scale up and create three full-time jobs. Laser cutting produces a highly accurate cut with edge surfaces that do not require significant hand refinishing. Nu-Tech Metals' fiber laser cutting table will be the only one of its kind in Northwestern Ontario available for hire. The availability of this service to other businesses in the region will help improve the competitiveness of the metal working sector in Northwestern Ontario.
Thunder Bay Hydraulics
$276,750
FedNor funding of $276,750 provided through the Steel and Aluminum Initiative will allow Thunder Bay Hydraulics (TBH) to upgrade its operations, as well as design and manufacture a hydraulic scissor lift for use in commercial markets. Specifically, this non-repayable investment will support prototype development, testing and equipment upgrades to facilitate production. Once complete, this priority project will help TBH double its current production and sales, while creating 10 highly skilled, full-time positions in the City of Thunder Bay.
Heartbeat Hot Sauce Co.
$189,748
To enable Heartbeat Hot Sauce Co. meet immediate and future demand for its high-profile products, FedNor is investing $189,748 to help the company scale up, increase production and create nine local jobs. Specifically, the repayable contribution will be used to expand into a larger facility, which includes securing permits, infrastructure and interior upgrades, as well as the purchase and installation of specialized equipment. Provided through FedNor's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, this investment will allow Heartbeat Hot Sauce to improve production and processing, while tripling the company's current output.
