Advantage Tent Fittings, Inc. Expands Manufacturing Capabilities in Chillicothe with Grants from JobsOhio and JEDISCO
Advantage Tent Fittings, Inc. recently made headlines with their plans to expand their Business operations in Chillicothe. The company, which specializes in manufacturing and distributing commercial and military tent components, as well as custom-sewn/heat-sealed products, invested $80,000 to modernize their manufacturing process with the acquisition of a new state-of-the-art radio frequency vinyl sealing machine in 2020.
The purchase of the cutting-edge machine was made possible through the support of a $20,000 JobsOhio Inclusion Grant, as well as a $20,000 Fluor BWXT Opportunity Fund Grant from JEDISCO (Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio.) This strategic investment has significantly enhanced Advantage Tent Fittings’ manufacturing capabilities, enabling them to produce a wide array of products including walls for commercial tents, tarps, privacy partitions, and vinyl equipment used by emergency responders.
Ben Hall, President of Advantage Tent Fittings, highlighted the impact of the grants on their operations, stating, “The JobsOhio Inclusion Grant funding was used to purchase a 20kw Radio Frequency (RF) Vinyl Welding Machine. RF welding uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy to fuse thermoplastic materials together at a molecular level and create a permanent seam.”
The acquisition of the new machine has not only allowed for enhanced production capabilities, but also enabled the company to adapt to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the pandemic, Advantage Tent Fittings leveraged the new machine to manufacture vinyl privacy partitions used at vaccine sites and other medical-related settings, demonstrating their agility and commitment to meeting evolving market demands.
“The new machine has greatly expanded our manufacturing capabilities and enabled us to diversify into new markets that we could not have accommodated before,” said Hall. “This includes the manufacture of equipment used by emergency responders, military, and in medical settings. We also recently launched a new operating division that offers cut, seal and sew manufacturing services for other companies.”
The significance of the JobsOhio Inclusion Grant in supporting small businesses in Ohio was underscored by Hall, who emphasized the value of such programs in enabling businesses to invest in new Technology and production capabilities, thus allowing them to compete on a national level. Moreover, he noted that these investments also contribute to upskilling existing jobs, making the manufacturing sector a more attractive and viable employment option for individuals entering the workforce or seeking a new career path.
In the context of the historic background of Chillicothe, it is worth noting that the city holds the distinction of being the first capital of Ohio, a testament to its rich history and significance in the state’s development. The expansion of Advantage Tent Fittings’ manufacturing capabilities aligns with the city’s legacy of innovation and progress, reflecting the spirit of entrepreneurship and growth that has characterized Chillicothe throughout its history.
As small businesses continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-evolving business landscape, the support and resources provided by organizations such as JobsOhio and JEDISCO play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and sustainability. Businesses in Ohio looking to expand their production and capitalize on new opportunities are encouraged to explore the resources and assistance offered by OhioSE, the JobsOhio Network Partner for southern, eastern, and southeastern Ohio.
With a mission to drive job creation and new capital investment in Ohio, JobsOhio serves as a vital catalyst for economic development in the state, working in collaboration with regional partners to support businesses and foster talent production, ultimately contributing to the growth and prosperity of communities across Ohio.
As Advantage Tent Fittings, Inc. embarks on this new phase of expansion and innovation, their story serves as a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit that define Ohio’s small business community. The strategic investments and grants received by the company have not only empowered them to enhance their manufacturing capabilities, but also positioned them for continued success and impact in the competitive marketplace.
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