Penny Pritzker, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, has announced the extension of a billion-dollar program that’s designed to accelerate the resurgence of American manufacturing. The Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) will designate up to 12 additional regions as “manufacturing communities” under the latest round of the Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership (IMCP) initiative.
Designated manufacturing communities can compete for up to $1.3 billion from 10 federal departments and agencies. The winners will also connect with a federal liaison and receive branding and promotional benefits that can help attract additional private investments and partnerships. By expanding the IMCP program, the Commerce Department hopes to spark manufacturing innovation and strengthen U.S. competitiveness in the global economy.
Last year, 12 of 70 applicants became manufacturing partnership communities during IMCP Round 1. In New York State, the Greater Rochester / Finger Lakes region was selected. After years of downsizing by Kodak, Xerox, and other large manufacturers, the area is experiencing an industrial resurgence thanks to photonics and precision manufacturing. Many current workers are expected to retire, however, so the Greater Rochester / Finger Lakes Region Manufacturing Community is planning to invest in training and education programs.
Will you encourage local leaders in your community to apply for IMCP Round 2? How could your New York State manufacturing company assist them in the application process?
Image Credit: © bas121/Dollar Photo Club
