Grants are now available for small businesses looking to retool their companies to help manufacture goods in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced on Wednesday.
The Pure Michigan Business Connect program will provide a total of $1 million in grants to small manufacturers in the state, awarding grants from $10,000 up to $150,000.
“Michigan has the manufacturing strength, innovation and determination to lead the charge in establishing an arsenal of health to address the shortage of critical supplies we are facing as a result of the COVID-19 virus,” said MEDC CEO Mark Burton in a statement. “The PMBC COVID-19 Emergency Access and Retooling Grants program will provide immediate assistance to small businesses around the state who are ready to step up and use their manufacturing know-how and retool to support recovery efforts in this time of need.”
The grants can be used to purchase manufacturing equipment for critical supplies, including the cost of logistics and shipping costs. They can also be used for technology upgrades and other costs of operationalizing new production lines.
The MEDC announced last week that it is also offering financial assistance for small businesses impacted by the pandemic through the Michigan Small Business Relief Program, which will provide up to $20 million in grants and loans.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Michigan has more than 9,300 confirmed cases of the coronavirus, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The death toll for the state is 337.
The United States currently has more than 186,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 3,603 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Applications to the retooling program will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the total $1 million in grant funds are awarded, the MEDC said.
Businesses can submit an application at https://pmbc.connect.space/covid19/forms.
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Jordyn Pair is a reporter with The Michigan Star. Follow her on Twitter at @JordynPair. Email her at [email protected].
Photo “Pure Michigan” by PunkToad. CC BY 2.0.
