ICYMI: NJEDA Launches the New Jersey Small and Micro Business PPE Access Program

On August 18, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) launched an application for online retailers and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) wholesalers that would like to become “Designated Vendors” in the program.  Interested parties may learn about the process and submit an application at covid19.nj.gov/ppe.

The program will establish a new website that provides micro and small businesses with the information needed to make easier and better PPE sourcing decisions. The website will offer a vetted list of online retailers (the Designated Vendors) that have agreed to verify the quality of the PPE they are selling and offer at least a 10% discount to businesses who enter through the State’s website. 

Online retailers will be vetted on a first-come, first serve basis by the NJEDA, and must agree to certain performance standards for their site (e.g., transparent pricing, high-quality products, etc.). Vetted online retailers will also be eligible to access an NJDEA grant pool of up to $3.5M to support the purchase of PPE that is manufactured in New Jersey or sourced from a small wholesaler based in a historically underserved community.
NJEDA intends to launch the full program in early to mid-September, once Designated Vendors have been officially selected to participate in the program.Interested parties may submit questions to the NJ PPE Access Program team at SmallBusinessPPE@njeda.com.

Please reach out to Hilary Chebra, Manager, Government Affairs at hchebra@chambersnj.com if you have any questions.