NYPPE
Industry: Advanced Manufacturing
Jobs: 20 New
Investment: $3,200,000
Project Overview:
The COVID-19 pandemic held a magnifying glass to many problems that already existed within our society and economy, one of those being the dependence on far away supply chains of personal protective equipment (PPE). This equipment – gowns, masks, face shields, etc. – has helped protect our frontline workers throughout the pandemic. As the globe braces for a potential second wave and attempts to safeguard against future crises, the community and local government has placed its attention on the revitalization of domestic manufacturing and supply of PPE.
Project Solution:
Connor Knapp and Peter Bruckel – both already successful business leaders in Western New York across diverse industries – saw this increased demand for PPE localization and decided to open NYPPE, a manufacturer of NIOSH N-95 respirators and surgical masks. The leadership team worked with Invest Buffalo Niagara on a site search and incentive coordination through New York State’s newly launched grant program toward the localization of PPE. NYPPE found clean room manufacturing space on Kenmore Avenue in Erie County through TM Montante. The company expects to hire 20 people initially, operating on two different shifts. The production of N-95 respirators and surgical masks in Western New York will help control price gouging and increase supply of this much needed equipment.