SAULT STE. MARIE - The Ontario government is investing $185,425 to help a natural products manufacturer expand operations, meet growing demand for products that will help in the fight against COVID-19, and create six new jobs as the province gradually restarts the economy.
OC Hair Bath & Body Co. will use the funding to purchase new equipment and renovate and expand its facility where it manufactures natural products such as hand sanitizer, soap, shampoo, insect repellent and makeup. The company also provides custom products, labelling and packaging for hospitals, not-for-profits, and businesses, including salons, spas, resorts and health clubs. The funding is delivered through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).
"As the province reopens and the economy recovers, small businesses in the north like OC Hair Bath & Body Co. need our assistance," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. "Supporting small businesses is an important part of our government's plan to create more jobs and attract new and expanded investment so northern communities can grow and thrive."
The NOHFC promotes economic development across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects - big and small, rural and urban - that stimulate growth, job creation and develop a skilled workforce. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $176 million in 1,224 projects in Northern Ontario. This has leveraged more than $650 million in investment and created or retained 3,559 jobs.
"OC Hair Bath & Body Co. has grown steadily since its inception," said Ross Romano, MPP for Sault Ste. Marie. "And now, with our investment, we are helping the company further expand operations and increase revenues, creating employment and prosperity for the people of Sault Ste. Marie."
The Ontario government is getting more people back to work and more recreational activities open by moving forward with a regional approach to Stage 2 of reopening the province. For a full list of spaces and services allowed to open in regions that have entered Stage 2, please visit ontario.ca/reopen.