A convenient, inexpensive synthesis of the previously reported, well-defined complex Ni(tmeda)(o-tol)Cl is described. This protocol enables rapid and safe access to Ni(tmeda)(o-tol)Cl, obviating the use of the hazardous reagent AlMe3 or air-sensitive Ni(COD)2. Ni(tmeda)(o-tol)Cl is prepared at room temperature from commercially available and easily synthesized precursor Ni(acac)2 and can be isolated at gram scale in air via simple filtration. We expect this simple method to be attractive to chemical industry and academia given the types of solvents, reaction temperature, and reagents used.