25 Maryland companies receive grants to make face shields, gowns and other PPE
BALTIMORE, MD (June 9, 2020) – Governor Larry Hogan today announced that Maryland has awarded an additional $1.6 million in a second round of grants to 25 Maryland companies for pivoting to or expanding production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Through the Maryland COVID-19 Emergency Relief Manufacturing Fund administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce, companies are receiving grants of up to $100,000 to manufacture critically needed items, including face shields, gowns, and N95 mask parts. The first round of grants, awarded in May, went to 20 Maryland companies and also totaled $1.6 million.
"We are proud to provide support to the dozens of Maryland companies that stepped up during this global pandemic to produce the most critically-needed equipment," said Governor Hogan. "Our top priority is to protect our essential and front line workers, and having a steady and reliable supply of items that are still in high demand will ensure we can continue to keep them safe."
The $5 million program was created in response to a growing demand for items to protect health care and front line workers, including face shields, surgical masks, gowns and gloves, as well as items for hospitals, like thermometers, respirators, and ventilators. The program received more than 200 applications.
"There was an overwhelming response to this program and each and every company that applied for this grant saw a need and wanted to contribute in any way they could," said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. "We are pleased that this program not only helped to support the production of much needed PPE, but also provided companies with funding to keep their employees working during this challenging time."
"Working with the Maryland Department of Commerce and receiving the grant helped us increase production of critically needed PPE, specifically gowns and face shields," said Chris McCormick, founding partner of Hatch Exhibits. "With their help, we have been able to secure more materials and production equipment to help meet the desperate need for PPE. We are so thankful to be keeping our employees at work and to be providing help during this crisis."
"We were alarmed with the shortage of domestic manufacturers for critical PPEs such as face masks. In response to the current pandemic, we have been offering a wide range of mask testing services," said Dr. Mina Izadjoo, president and chief science officer of Integrated Pharma Services. "This funding will bring us one step closer to self-sufficiency in making masks and better positions the country, particularly Maryland, in the fight against this pandemic."
The following Maryland companies are receiving grant funding:
For additional business resources available during the COVID-19 outbreak, please visit businessexpress.maryland.gov/coronavirus. For health resources, including case counts and clinician guidance, visit coronavirus.maryland.gov.
