$1.6M In Grants Go To MD Businesses To Make PPEs During Pandemic

MARYLAND — Twenty-five Maryland companies have been award a second round of grants totaling $1.6 million from the Maryland COVID-19 Emergency Relief Manufacturing Fund that enables them to switch over to or expand the production of personal protective equipment.

The fund is administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce and allows companies to receive grants totaling 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 Gov. Larry Hogan in a statement. “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.”

Chris McCormick, founding partner of Hatch Exhibits, was able to secure more materials and production equipment to "help meet the desperate need for PPE" thanks to a grant.

“Working with the Maryland Department of Commerce and receiving the grant helped us increase production of critically needed PPE, specifically gowns and face shields,” McCormick said. "We are so thankful to be keeping our employees at work and to be providing help during this crisis.”