Coronavirus Response: Baltimore Offers Grants For Manufacturers Who Switch To Making Personal Protective Equipment
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The city of Baltimore and the Baltimore Development Corporation are offering grants to manufacturers in the city who switch to making personal protective equipment amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young's office announced the program Thursday afternoon. It includes $50,000 in funding available to companies to cover the start-up costs of making products listed on the Maryland Department of Commerce's list of items in critical need.
"It is essential that we provide new and innovative ways to support our local manufacturing, especially during these critical times," said Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young. "This grant will specifically support Baltimore businesses in their production of much needed Personal Protective Equipment, including vital wage support. I applaud the Baltimore Development Corporation for moving swiftly to address a crucial need for all of our healthcare professionals, first responders and essential employees."
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The list includes products like N95 masks, face shields, gloves, thermometers and ventilators.
Each business will be eligible for up to $7,500 in funding. Businesses can apply online on the BDC website.
"These are challenging times for businesses and individuals and we're proud that Baltimore's maker and manufacturing community was able to step up to assist in providing Personal Protective Equipment," said Colin Tarbert, president and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation. "BDC's Made In Baltimore program has created a robust network of manufacturers who are able to fill a need and through this grant, will be able to scale up production."
For the latest information on coronavirus go to the Maryland Health Department's website or call 211. You can find all of WJZ's coverage on coronavirus in Maryland here.
