The US Department of Energy (DOE) has announced nearly US$13m in funding to support small- and medium-sized manufacturers in adopting smart manufacturing technologies.
The funding, available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to improve supply chain efficiency and resilience by addressing barriers such as high upfront costs and limited access to training.
Administered by the US DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC), the State Manufacturing Leadership Program (SMLP) seeks to modernise domestic manufacturing by encouraging the use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and high-performance computing.
According to the US DOE’S MESC, such innovations enable real-time monitoring, improve productivity, and help manufacturers respond more effectively to supply chain disruptions.
The new funding is part of a US$50m initiative designed to strengthen the US domestic manufacturing base.
In previous rounds, the program funded 17 projects in 15 states, helping manufacturers access technical assistance and implement solutions.
With the latest round, eligible states, territories and state-funded universities and colleges can apply for grants of up to US$2m over three years, provided they meet a cost-share requirement of 23.1%.
Awardees will gain access to resources from CESMII, the Smart Manufacturing Institute, as well as other technical assistance networks, including the National Laboratories and Manufacturing USA institutes.
The programme also highlights the role of smart manufacturing in securing supply chains, ensuring that critical goods and materials are produced reliably within the USA.
The US DOE views the adoption of advanced technologies as vital to reducing vulnerabilities and building long-term resilience in the industrial sector.
Applications for funding will remain open until April 21, 2025.
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