NIST Allocates $46.5M for New Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers
The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has announced a funding opportunity totaling $46.5 million to establish or expand up to 14 new Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers across the United States. These centers aim to assist small and medium-sized manufacturers in adopting advanced manufacturing technologies such as robotics, AI, automation, additive manufacturing, and biotechnology. The funding is intended to strengthen U.S. manufacturing ecosystems by improving production capacity, supporting supply chain integration, and developing a skilled workforce. The grants will be awarded annually for up to five years, with the possibility of an additional non-competitive extension based on performance reviews and continued relevance. Recipients must secure at least 50% in matching funds from non-federal sources. The MEP program has faced past budget cuts under former President Donald Trump but continues to receive bipartisan support due to its role in bolstering supply chains and technological adoption among manufacturers.