PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) -- A program that helped 9,000 small businesses buy personal protective equipment last year in New Jersey is back.
Businesses with fewer than 100 employees that need certain PPE items can get those supplies at 60% to 70% off through partnerships with big retailers and wholesalers.
"Many of our larger businesses already had supplier relationships where they could access PPE easily," said Brian Sabina, chief economic growth officer at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. This gives the same buying power to the little guy.
He says the program helps connect businesses with suppliers, and more of these things are now being manufactured locally.
"We've seen quite an expansion off of a pretty small base, especially on products like three-ply masks, some N-95 masks," Sabina said.
Businesses that were approved last time are pre-approved for this round. By applying, businesses can save up to $800 on PPE. Savings are as high as $1,000 for businesses in the state’s designated opportunity zones.
More information about how to apply is available online.