Hamilton company gets financial boost from province to ramp-up mask production

Niko Apparel Systems got a financial boost from the provincial government to help automate the production of surgical masks.

The Hamilton-based company is directing more than $250,000 into its personal protective equipment (PPE) production.

“Through the Ontario Together Fund, our government is making targeted investments in domestic businesses with the ideas and solutions to support Ontario through this pandemic, as well as future crisis,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.

“Niko Apparel’s ability to develop, certify, and manufacture surgical masks is another example of Ontario innovation at its very best.”

Niko Apparel Systems also manufactured and supplied uniforms for Canadian Olympians, including members of the gold medal-winning Canadian Women’s Eight in rowing.

“We are grateful for the funding from the Ontario government, which allowed Niko to maintain key staff and pivot while our main activity, custom manufactured sportswear, was put on hold due to the pandemic,” said Joseph Camillo, President, Niko Apparel.

“Niko adapted and became one of many companies who stepped up to provide much-needed PPE for our community. The province recognized the importance of Ontario manufacturing as an integral part of the response to this global pandemic and we look forward to continue being a part of this important sector for years to come.”

$125,000 of the funding is through the Ontario Together Fund, which focuses on funding homegrown manufacturing and innovation to combat COVID-19 and other health and safety materials and initiatives.