The Department of Energy revealed $50 million in new funding from President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for smart manufacturing technologies.
DOE announced the $50 million will be used to support the State Manufacturing Leadership Program, which is attempting to make smart manufacturing technologies and high-performance computing more accessible to small- and medium-sized manufacturers, according to a March 31 news release. The initiative aims to eliminate barriers that currently prevent these manufacturers from using data-driven tools and innovative technologies.
“Unlocking the potential for small- and medium-sized clean energy manufacturing facilities to use the same technologies as larger facilities will make us more competitive on a global scale,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said in the release. “This funding opportunity will ensure that the benefits of a clean energy economy are felt across the country.”
The State Manufacturing Leadership Program is accepting proposals for funding that encourage initiatives such as promoting smart manufacturing technologies to small- and medium-sized manufacturers, offering financial assistance for their implementation and partnering with stakeholders to diversify the smart manufacturing talent pool, the release reported.
The program also connects manufacturers with technical assistance providers who can help them with their new projects within the program, according to the release.
"DOE seeks applications for programs that will be self-sustaining long-term," the DOE release reported. "Competitive funding awards of up to $2 million per state will be made over an up-to three-year period. States will be required to provide a cost match of at least 30% of the award."
Full applications are due by 5 p.m. ET May 30, the release said.
The end goal of the program is to make the U.S. a net-zero economy by 2050, according to the release. Biden hopes, through the accomplishment of this initiative, the U.S. will be able to maintain a global leadership role on energy issues.
