Niagara County launches production program to support manufacturers

Submitted by the Public Information Officer

Niagara County Legislator Rich Andres, chairman of the Economic Development Committee, on Monday announced the launch of the Niagara County production program that will provide matching grants up to $50,000 to manufacturers for the purchase of equipment and machinery. Andres said the goal of the program is to enhance the competitiveness and facilitate the growth of the manufacturing sector in Niagara County.

“We know that, during the pandemic, many manufacturers had to use all of their available resources to just stay operational, which meant capital needs for maintaining and upgrading equipment were pushed to the backburner,” he said. “Many are still struggling to catch back up, and the fact is, in manufacturing, you need to be constantly investing in your production lines to stay competitive.”

Firms eligible for the grant program are for-profit businesses that have been in business since January 2020; the grant they seek is for a project in Niagara County; and the company must qualify under Small Business Administration size standards (fewer than 500 employees.) Retail and seasonal businesses do not qualify for the Niagara County production program. Temporary, seasonal or easily removable improvements and/or purchases are not eligible.

Those interested in the program can download the application packet at www.niagaracountybusiness.com/niagara-county-production-program. The packet includes submission timelines and further eligibility requirements.

In addition, a virtual orientation webinar for the Niagara County production program will take place at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 29. During this event, the key components of the program will be discussed and there will be a Q&A session. The webinar is free to attend, but registration is required at https://www.niagaracountybusiness.com/niagara-county-production-program.