The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is launching a competition for a new Manufacturing USA institute that will leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the resilience of U.S. manufacturers. This funding opportunity aims to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors, driving innovation in manufacturing and strengthening the U.S. economy.
Funding Announcement
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is launching a competition for a new Manufacturing USA institute that will leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the resilience of U.S. manufacturers. Details of this funding opportunity were published on Grants.gov.
Funding Details
NIST plans to provide up to $70 million over five years, depending on federal fund availability. The institute must also secure matching funds from nonfederal sources.
"AI has enormous potential to make us smarter, faster and more innovative, but we have to work together to maximize its benefits and mitigate its risks," said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.
"Through this new AI-focused Manufacturing USA institute, we will help leverage AI to supercharge manufacturing, empower our workforce and create secure, resilient supply chains."
"This new Manufacturing USA institute will strengthen the U.S. economy by helping manufacturers make smart use of AI to boost their productivity and increase their resilience in the face of supply chain disruptions and other unexpected events," said NIST Director Laurie E. Locascio.
"We look forward to reviewing innovative proposals that will help domestic manufacturers maximize the potential of AI."
Manufacturing USA Overview
Manufacturing USA is a network of institutes focused on tackling advanced manufacturing challenges. These institutes foster collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive innovation in manufacturing.
Institute Objectives
The new institute will focus on developing AI-based manufacturing solutions through collaboration with industry, academia, and government. It will integrate expertise in AI, manufacturing, and supply chain management to enhance manufacturing resilience. Proposals can address multiple industries or focus on a single sector.
Primary Areas of Focus:
- Advancing technology development: Leverage AI to develop new technologies that improve manufacturing efficiency and productivity.
- Building an educated & skilled workforce: Provide training and education programs for workers in the manufacturing sector to ensure they have the skills needed to work with AI-based systems.
- Creating shared infrastructure and facilities: Establish shared facilities and infrastructure to support the development and deployment of AI-based manufacturing solutions.
Application Requirements
Applicants must outline clear outcomes and timelines, address significant industrial needs, demonstrate industry support, and avoid overlapping with existing institutes and planned initiatives like the Digital Twins Institute for Semiconductor Manufacturing.
Application Process
The competition includes a two-stage process. The first stage requires submitting concept papers by September 30, 2024. Selected applicants will then be invited to submit full proposals. Further deadlines and details are available on Grants.gov.
Eligibility
The competition is open to:
- Accredited higher education institutions
- U.S.-based nonprofits and for-profit organizations with majority domestic ownership or control
- Various governmental entities
Informational Events
NIST will host an informational webinar and an in-person proposer’s day event. Dates and locations will be posted on the NIST website.
To learn more about this funding opportunity, please visit Grants.gov or contact NIST directly.
Resources
By leveraging AI and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, this new Manufacturing USA institute has the potential to drive innovation in manufacturing, strengthen the U.S. economy, and enhance the resilience of domestic manufacturers.
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