NIST announces up to $70M funding to enhance U.S. manufacturing resilience through AI, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Connect with technology leaders today!
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has announced a significant funding opportunity aimed at enhancing the resilience of U.S. manufacturers through the use of AI. This initiative, part of the Manufacturing USA program, is set to provide up to $70 million over five years, contingent on federal fund availability.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized the transformative potential of AI in making manufacturing smarter, faster, and more innovative. The new AI-focused Manufacturing USA institute aims to leverage AI to boost productivity, empower the workforce, and create secure, resilient supply chains.
Laurie E. Locascio, NIST Director, highlighted that the institute would help manufacturers utilize AI to enhance productivity and resilience against supply chain disruptions. The institute will focus on advancing technology development, workforce education, and shared infrastructure.
Manufacturing USA is a network of institutes that brings together people, ideas, and technology to solve advanced manufacturing challenges. These institutes are public-private partnerships that accelerate innovation by co-investing in industrially relevant, cross-cutting advanced manufacturing products and processes.
The competition for this funding will be conducted in two stages. Initially, concept papers will be reviewed, followed by full proposals from the best concepts. The deadline for submitting concept papers is September 30, 2024.
Eligible applicants include accredited higher education institutions, U.S.-based nonprofits and for-profits with majority domestic ownership, and state, local, territorial, and tribal governments. The goal is to foster collaboration and innovation in the manufacturing sector.
The new institute is expected to contribute to and benefit from the existing network of Manufacturing USA institutes. This collaboration aims to ensure that the new AI institute does not duplicate existing efforts but rather complements and enhances them.
NIST's initiative underscores the importance of AI in modern manufacturing. By integrating AI, manufacturers can improve operational performance and strengthen supply chains, making them more competitive in the global market.
The announcement also includes plans for an informational webinar and an in-person event to provide further details about the funding opportunity. These events will help potential applicants understand the application process and the institute's objectives.
This funding opportunity represents a significant step towards integrating AI into U.S. manufacturing, ensuring that the sector remains resilient and competitive. For more insights and updates on AI and manufacturing, visit Rapid Innovation Blogs.