The State of Connecticut is partnering with the Connecticut Business and Industry Association and its affiliate CONNSTEP to help the state’s manufacturers that are retooling their operations to make critically needed medical equipment and supplies, and the health care institutions that are experiencing specific shortages.

Governor Ned Lamont highlighted Curtis Packaging in Sandy Hook, Modern Plastics in Shelton and Wepco Plastics in Middlefield.

He says manufacturers will be able to obtain information on the current supply needs in Connecticut, make connections with suppliers, and ultimately provide the products.  Lamont added that this is crucial so the state doesn't have to sit with a tin cup waiting for the strategic reserve to provide the needed supplies. 

Lamont says this effort is focused on using manufacturers as non-traditional sources to meet needs that currently can’t be met in the market, which has become overwhelmed as global demand has dramatically increased.

A new website has been created by CONNSTEP – www.ctcovidresponse.org for manufacturers. The Connecticut Department of Administrative Services has a purchasing team that is generating and following sourcing leads for traditional manufacturers, distributors, and other sources.

In response to the COVID-19 impacts, the Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Fund Voucher Program will give priority and focus to manufacturers realigning or expanding capacity and capabilities to respond to the shortages of critical medical equipment and supplies.