A surgical fastening apparatus including at least one self-closing clip and a deployment device. The self-closing clip comprises a wire defining an intermediate portion interconnecting opposing, first and second side portions having a memory set loop shape. The deployment device includes a clip holding assembly and an actuator. The clip holding assembly includes first and second containment arms and a transfer rod. The containment arms have a distal segment defining a lumen extending from an open, distal end. The transfer rod is associated with at least one of the containment arms in an axially movable fashion and forms an engagement feature. The actuator is connected to the transfer rod for controlling movement of the rod. Upon final assembly in a pre-deployment state, the engagement feature of the transfer rod engages the intermediate portion of the clip, and the side portions are captured by the containment arms.