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Precious Plate was ready to expand. The Niagara Falls-based metal plating manufacturer had plans to add a new storage building that would create more room for production.

The company needed FAA approval before construction could begin due to its proximity to the Niagara Falls International Airport, a process that first required finding the right point of contact.

“We’re new BNP members, and during our onboarding meeting, I saw a presentation about government affairs and advocacy work,” says Craig Ryan, Vice President of Operations at Precious Plate. “While it wasn’t exactly the type of issue they were talking about, I asked if they could point us in the right direction. We’d been spinning our wheels for months trying to figure out who to even talk to.”

Founded more than 50 years ago, Precious Plate specializes in reel-to-reel electroplating for technical and automotive components. The company is investing in facility improvements to support continued growth, including a 1,500-square-foot storage building that will free up manufacturing space while improving organization and safety.

After Craig raised the issue, the BNP connected him right away with its government affairs team, which facilitated an introduction through the NFTA. By the next morning, Precious Plate had the correct FAA contact. Within days, Precious Plate submitted the proper paperwork and received the approval it had spent months pursuing.

“In all, it took two or three business days,” Craig says. “To me, this is a really good example of how the Partnership can benefit local businesses and get you in touch with the right people.”

Challenges like these are common for growing businesses. Many of them can be overcome more quickly through a strong network of business resources. As the regional chamber of commerce, the BNP connects employers with trusted partners that move the projects forward.

With the expansion moving forward, Precious Plate can now turn its focus to another priority: workforce. The company expects to add approximately 20 positions this year and has already begun working with the BNP’s workforce team to explore recruitment strategies and training programs.

“We’re in growth mode right now,” Craig says. “Part of joining the Partnership was finding new ways to attract and retain talent. This experience showed us the value of having the Partnership as a resource when you need it.”