Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center State Competition
NIST seeks eligible applicants to establish and run Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers in 14 states and Puerto Rico to support local manufacturing.
Funder: National Institute of Standards and Technology
Due Dates: August 21, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: 14 awards; Year 1 federal funding ranges from ~$706K (Alaska) to ~$15.6M (California); 5-year totals from ~$3.5M to ~$78.2M; 50% non-federal cost share required.
Summary: Supports establishment and operation of Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers to advance adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies by small and mid-sized manufacturers in select states and Puerto Rico.
Key Information: Only U.S.-based nonprofits, higher education, or state/territorial/local/tribal governments (or consortia) eligible; construction costs not allowed; 50% cost share required.
Description
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking applications to establish and operate Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, and Puerto Rico. The MEP Centers are intended to support small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMMs) in adopting and scaling advanced manufacturing technologies—such as robotics, AI, automation, advanced materials, additive manufacturing, and biotechnology—to improve U.S. industrial competitiveness and economic outcomes. Funded Centers will catalyze regional manufacturing ecosystems, foster workforce development, facilitate access to capital, and promote collaboration among industry, academia, and government.
