DOE Launches $13M Funding to Boost Smart Manufacturing Adoption by SMMs

The Facts -

  • Smart manufacturing boosts efficiency, cuts costs, and strengthens U.S. supply chains.
  • $13 million funding helps SMMs adopt smart tech; DOE aims for broader reach.
  • Programs offer training and resources; awards of up to $2 million support SMMs.


Revolutionizing Manufacturing: DOE's Push for Smart Technologies

The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation has the potential to transform traditional manufacturing into a more efficient system. Smart manufacturing promises benefits like cost reduction, decreased energy consumption, enhanced productivity, and strengthened competitiveness for U.S. manufacturers. This approach also allows real-time monitoring, which can mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities by ensuring secure and reliable production of essential goods domestically. However, small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) face barriers like high initial costs and limited access to training, which the Department of Energy (DOE) aims to address.

The DOE's State Manufacturing Leadership Program, with a total budget of $50 million, is now releasing its third round of funding, amounting to nearly $13 million. This follows the selection of 17 projects in 15 states in earlier rounds, aimed at expanding smart manufacturing initiatives and utilizing high-performance computing (HPC) resources. For more information on past selections, visit the project page here.

In this latest funding round, the DOE expands its reach to include not only U.S. states and territories but also state-funded universities, technical, and community colleges. These institutions play a crucial role in preparing the workforce for advanced manufacturing careers through degree and certification programs, as well as providing technical assistance directly to SMMs. This initiative aims to enhance the domestic manufacturing workforce's capabilities to adopt smart manufacturing technologies.

Eligible entities are encouraged to apply for funding to support SMMs in areas such as technical training, facility assessments, smart manufacturing apprenticeships, and financial assistance for implementing improvements. Funding awards of up to $2 million will be available over a three-year period, with a required cost share of at least 23.1% of the total project cost. The DOE is prioritizing applications that offer sustainable, long-term solutions.

Recipients of this funding will gain access to technical support from CESMII, the Smart Manufacturing Institute. Additionally, awardees can connect SMMs to an extensive network of public and private technical assistance providers, including Manufacturing USA institutes and the National Laboratories.

For further details on the funding opportunity, view the full announcement here. An informational webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. ET, with full applications due by Monday, April 21, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. ET. Interested parties can register for the webinar here.

This funding initiative is managed by ENERGYWERX in collaboration with the DOE, supported by a Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) from the DOE's Office of Technology Transitions. The agreement empowers ENERGYWERX to expand DOE's connections with innovative and non-traditional partners, promoting the rapid advancement and deployment of clean energy solutions.

Discover more about the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains' mission to boost America's energy sector through investments in manufacturing re-shoring, skilling, and scaling.

---
Read More USA Works News