Government provides funding for local businesses and artists to manufacture personal protective equipment

Businesses and artists interested in manufacturing personal protective equipment (PPE) for the NWT can now apply for government funding.

According to a news release, the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) is accepting proposals that show a business case for the development of PPE and cloth facemasks within the NWT.

“Securing a local supply of protective equipment is one way to support business while we protect residents and workers from COVID-19,” NWT Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Kami Kandola said in a written statement.

Products include:

Certified medical face masks
Certified face shields
Certified hand sanitizer
Non-medical cloth face masks for the public

ITI will provide:

Up to $1,000 for the purchase of raw materials for the manufacturing of non-medical cloth facemasks
Up to $25,000 for the purchase of raw materials and equipment for the manufacturing of medically certified products

The government says successful applicants will need to prove that they have the capacity and expertise required to meet federal medical certification processes and begin production promptly.

“An important element to rebuilding our economy will be to buy local; in both our personal lives and in business. The NWT has a skilled manufacturing sector and the ability to develop PPE within our border,” Minister of ITI Katrina Nokleby said.

The government will only accept applications until market demand for PPE in the territory is met.

arthur.green@cklbradio.com