Manufacturers to Help on COVID-19 Medical Supplies
March 23, 2020
Gov. J.B Pritzker this afternoon announced that the state is partnering with two business groups on the production and purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilators to protect healthcare workers on the frontlines of fighting the COVID-19 epidemic.
The Illinois Manufacturers Association (IMA) is connecting companies that shift their production to items such as masks, sanitizer, test kits, and ventilators with buyers and help them in dealing with federal rules. The Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization (iBIO) will connect producers and medical providers as well as launch a fund to raise money to purchase products that are not donated.
“America is facing extraordinary times that rival some of the greatest challenges in our nation’s history. While the task is daunting, manufacturers stand ready to once again answer our nation’s call, conquering obstacles and leading the way forward,” said Mark Denzler, president & CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. “The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and the 592,000 women and men working on factory floors across our state are proud to support Governor J.B. Pritzker’s efforts to combat and contain this virus, producing life-saving products in desperate need across Illinois.”
IMA asks that manufacturers, which can provide or donate essential medical supplies such as N95 masks, gloves, gowns, ventilators, and sanitize, to take a brief survey, and IMA will be in touch with them.
iBIO is providing technical assistance to factories that want to switch their product mix and establishing a fund for those who want to donate money to help healthcare workers and first responders.
“The Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization – iBIO – is the association that represents the 85,000 life science employees in Illinois. Our life sciences community is leading the charge in the fight In Illinois against COVID-19,” said John Conrad, president & CEO of iBIO. “Illinois’ innovative companies are ramping up efforts to study the virus and develop solutions to prevent, diagnose and treat this deadly infectious disease. As a community we are proud to support Governor J.B. Pritzker’s efforts to provide immediate support to healthcare workers and first responders. These unsung heroes are directly working with patients in these unprecedented times, and will continue to do so at great risk to their health and their ability to care for others until they have all of the protective equipment they need.”