Saying that you’re committed to quality isn’t enough. You need proof of operational excellence. For small-to-medium manufacturers, achieving ISO9001 or AS9100 certification is the way to build trust with Tier 1 suppliers. But how do you pay for certification? There’s a grant program available.
USDA ISO9001 and AS9100 Certification Assistance Grants
Train, Develop, Optimize (TDO), the New York Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NY MEP) center for Central New York, can help rural-based, New York State companies with ISO9001 and AS9100 certification. TDO is administering funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and qualifying companies can receive $3000 toward offsetting the costs associated with certification.
Visit NY MEP to learn more about this program, or click here to apply. If you’re not sure whether your company is eligible, use USDA’s Rural Development Eligibility Lookup Tool. Your business doesn’t have to be in Central New York, but you must be rural-based and in New York State. DLS Quality Management of Liverpool, New York will provide the ISO9001 and AS9100 certification services.
Why ISO 9001 and AS9100 Certification Matter
For small-to-medium manufacturers who are serious about growth, proof of operational excellence isn’t optional. ISO 9001 is the world’s most widely recognized quality management standard and applies to every industry. AS9100 builds on ISO9001 but adds strict requirements specific to aerospace manufacturing. It also applies to the defense supply chain.
Certification isn’t just about winning new business. The right quality management system (QMS) improves your internal efficiency. Companies that achieve ISO9001 or AS9100 certification don’t just hang certificates on the wall and update their marketing materials. They report stronger communication, fewer production bottlenecks, and a significant reduction in operational errors.
Apply Today
Grant programs like this are designed to keep small-to-medium manufacturers competitive. If you’re delaying ISO9001 or AS9100 certification when an award opportunity like this is available, you’re leaving money on the table. Visit NY MEP to learn more about the USDA ISO9001 and AS9100 Certification Assistance Grants, and click here to apply.