On September 27, 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $22 million initiative aimed at supporting smart manufacturing at small- and medium-sized facilities across the country. The initiative will be implemented through the State Manufacturing Leadership Program, benefiting 12 state-run programs.
According to a press release, the goal of the program is to accelerate the adoption of smart manufacturing technologies and high-performance computing in small- and medium-sized manufacturing facilities in the United States. The DOE believes that advancing sustainable, next-generation tools and resources in the manufacturing sector is crucial for achieving the Biden-Harris Administration's ambitious goal of a net-zero economy by 2050 and strengthening America's global leadership in manufacturing.
Under the funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the 12 selected states will establish new or enhance existing state-run initiatives. These programs will collectively assist over 3,500 small- and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) in gaining access to smart manufacturing technologies, high-performance computing resources, and other valuable resources. The offerings will include technical guidance, training, facility evaluations, apprenticeship opportunities, and direct financial support to help SMMs implement smart manufacturing advancements.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized the importance of the manufacturing sector to the nation's economy. She stated, "Thanks to the President's Investing in America agenda, DOE is helping provide the innovative tools needed to improve efficiency and reduce costs—supporting state efforts to bolster manufacturing competitiveness while combatting the climate crisis."
The funding for the State Manufacturing Leadership Program will be managed by DOE's Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC). The programs will also collaborate on a national scale, partnering with organizations such as the United Steel Workers, National Institute of Standards and Technology's Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers, Manufacturing USA Institutes, DOE's Industrial Assessment Centers, national laboratories, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, community colleges, and other community-focused organizations.
This initiative aims to boost the adoption of smart manufacturing technologies and high-performance computing in small- and medium-sized manufacturing facilities, contributing to the growth and competitiveness of the manufacturing sector in the United States.
