STATEHOUSE (May 7, 2020) – Local small businesses and nonprofits can now utilize the state's new online marketplace to request personal protective equipment, according to State Rep. Ethan Manning (R-Denver).
He said as businesses resume operations, those unable to source and procure PPE on their own can go online to backontrack.in.gov/ppemarketplace.htm to order masks, face shields and hand sanitizer.
"Small businesses around the state are doing everything they can to survive this pandemic," Manning said. "In order to reopen, many sectors must meet certain requirements, which may include having PPE. This new marketplace provides restaurants, retailers and others an additional resource to help protect employees and the public."
Launched by the Indiana Economic Development Corp., the Small Business PPE Marketplace serves as a secondary source for ordering Hoosier-made supplies. Currently, there is no charge but that could change depending on multiple factors.
Businesses must be registered in Indiana with the Secretary of State's Office, employ less than 150 people, and require PPE to reopen and comply with workplace safety requirements. Examples of eligible businesses include restaurants, retail sales, personal services and office environments.
According to the IEDC, all requests will be evaluated and fulfilled based on work environment risk profile, stock availability and the number of outstanding requests. At times, partial or delayed fulfillment of requests may occur.
To learn more, visit backontrack.in.gov/ppemarketplace.htm.
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State Rep. Ethan Manning (R-Denver) represents House District 23,
which includes portions of Cass, Fulton and Miami counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
