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The Helpers Part One

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We used to know what a “normal” day would look like. Now, after the start of social distancing, the closing of restaurants, and everything else that’s happened, we’re not so sure anyone really knows what “normal” is. The communications industry is interesting, because it means that we touch base with people from a lot of different areas. That means we know people in a million different industries. As our team talked about our clients this week, we realized that we have a bunch of them who can help out with the COVID-19 crisis. So here’s what will probably be the first of many blogs about our great clients, how much we love them, and how they can help. Share this blog with everyone you know.

Alliant Healthcare

Alliant Healthcare is a Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned, Small Business (SDVOSB) that specializes in federal government sales, contracting, and distribution. Have we mentioned that they’re based right here in Michigan? It’s another win. Alliant works with the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and other government organizations to connect companies in need to contractors who can get devices made. If you know anyone in the healthcare industry or government who could use some help with devices during the COVID-19 outbreak, contact Alliant Healthcare…like, right now.

MediSurge

Speaking of veteran-owned businesses, MediSurge is a Grand Rapids company that specializes in designing, prototyping, and manufacturing medical devices. They’ve got an ISO Class 7 Cleanroom, which essentially means everything they make is ready for surgery. MediSurge can use a bunch of different manufacturing methods, including 3D printing and injection molding. That means they’re equipped to help out with manufacturing a huge variety of devices, medical or otherwise. MediSurge specializes in cardiovascular devices, which helps address the number one underlying condition in COVID-19 fatalities. Contact MediSurge right now if you need a partner to help manufacture life-saving medical devices.

Michigan Manufacturing and Technology Association (MMTA)

The Michigan Manufacturing and Technology Association (MMTA) is a resource for manufacturers in all stages of business to find resources and get help. Their membership base is a great way to network with other manufacturers across the state. MMTA is a wonderful resource for any manufacturing business that is struggling during COVID-19 conditions. It can also help connect these businesses with other manufacturers, factories, suppliers, and more. If you need help as a manufacturer in Michigan, check out MMTA. You’ll be glad you did.

STEWART Industries

STEWART Industries has a bunch of resources that can be essential during the COVID-19 situation. They boast a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Division, which can help manufacturing businesses of all sizes. What’s an FTZ? We’re about to blow your mind. It’s an area on U.S. soil that’s counted as if it’s outside of the U.S. for customs reasons. That means businesses can ship their supplies to the FTZ, where they can be sub-assembled into parts and then imported. This saves businesses a ton of money on tariff and duty reduction and elimination. But it also means that STEWART can help assemble for factories that aren’t functioning at full capacity because of the virus. The FTZ is a contained space, so STEWART Industries can sub-assemble, manufacture, quality check, and more, all while their clients don’t have a full staff. If you’re curious about FTZs, you need to reach out to STEWART right now. It could be a game changer.

TOC Logistics International, Inc.

If you’ve been a long-time reader of our blogs, you’ve probably heard us mention TOC Logistics International, Inc. The TOC team specializes in helping businesses optimize their supply chains and save money while they do it.
Right now, the TOC team is working around the clock to keep up with the latest updates from around the world. That means they know what ports are open or closed, they can figure out what delays a company might expect, they can reroute cargo, and more.

Plus, they have customs brokers on staff, which means they can help your business manage any supply chain issues you have, whether they’re overseas or here in the U.S.
If you need help navigating the crazy global supply chain and keeping a steady flow of goods. You know who to call. That’s right. TOC Logistics (not Ghostbusters). We have a lot of clients who can help businesses and the economy throughout this pandemic. Pass this blog along and spread the resources.

While you’re at it, if you haven’t written a statement on COVID-19 yet, you need to. Check out our blog on how to write a crisis statement. If there’s anything we can to do to help your business, too, get in touch with Kim directly at ki*@*******gn.com. We’re all in this together, and there will be a light at the end of the tunnel.

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