NLIS 8
May 23, 2003
(Industry, Trade and Rural Development)

 

Minister announces funding for new manufacturer of compact campers

Industry, Trade and Rural Development Minister Judy Foote today announced $17,500 in funding for Com-Pac Camp Ltd., a new manufacturer of compact campers in Gander during a tour of the company. The owner of this manufacturing enterprise, 34 year-old Gander native Darren Kieley, started the company on a part-time basis a year ago when he discovered a niche in the marketplace for the product. The funding will allow the company to expand its operations.

"Com-Pac Camp Ltd. offers a unique product in the marketplace. The potential for company growth and export expansion is significant, which is why government is pleased to support Com-Pac," said Minister Foote. "Government made a commitment in its Renewal Strategy for Jobs and Growth to create a strong environment for small business development and this investment is an example of one way we are making good on that commitment."

Mr. Kieley identified the market potential for compact campers through his interest in camping and traveling by motorcycle. "When I investigated the compact camper market, I found there was very little out there and virtually nothing in Atlantic Canada," said Mr. Kieley. "I began to explore the idea of making a compact camper for myself and before long I came up with a concept and a design."

Mr. Kieley developed a base model and has since developed new compact campers with options like coolers, stoves and furnaces. The company�s business plan projects production of 30 campers and 13 cargo carriers in the first year of operation.

"Com-Pac Camp Ltd. is a new business that will have a significant economic benefit for the Gander region. It will create new jobs and put new money into the local economy," said Sandra Kelly, MHA for Gander District. "It is an excellent example of an innovative company that grew from one small idea. It is a testament to the creativity of Newfoundland and Labrador entrepreneurs."

Com-Pac�s campers are ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts as well as owners of ATVs and small cars. The camper measures 79 inches long and 39 inches wide when folded down and opens into a full camper that has two beds that can sleep four people.

Of the $17,500 announced for the company today, $12,500 is being provided through the department�s Small Business Seed Capital Equity Program and $5,000 is being provided through the department�s Small Business and Market Development Program. The Small Business Seed Capital Equity Program makes equity of up to $50,000 available, on a matching basis, to new entrepreneurs or existing small businesses seeking expansion opportunities in areas of the economy that offer significant growth potential. The Small Business and Market Development Program provides up to $25,000 in funding, again on a matching basis, to help entrepreneurs acquire the necessary expertise to pursue new business ideas and new markets for their products or services.

Media contact: Tansy Mundon, Communications, (709) 729-4570

2003 05 23                                     12:50 p.m.


SearchHomeBack to GovernmentContact Us


All material copyright the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. No unauthorized copying or redeployment permitted. The Government assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any material deployed on an unauthorized server.
Disclaimer/Copyright/Privacy Statement