Award Competition for Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers in the States of Kentucky, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and South Dakota

Background
The National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST’s) Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program is a nationwide network of Centers (referred to hereinafter as the MEP National Network™). MEP Centers are located in all 50 States and Puerto Rico and serve as trusted business advisors focused on transforming U.S. manufacturers to compete globally, supporting supply chain integration, and providing access to technology for improved productivity, and supporting a strong manufacturing workforce.

The MEP National Network™ is a diverse network of State, non-profit organizations, and public colleges and universities, comprising more than 1,400 manufacturing experts offering hands-on technical expertise and assistance services that address the critical needs of their local manufacturers that will impact U.S. Manufacturing.

Grant Details
The NIST Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), authorized by 15 U.S.C. § 278k, is seeking applications from eligible applicants to enter into cooperative agreements to operate MEP Centers in the States of Kentucky, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and South Dakota. These MEP Centers will provide manufacturing extension services to small and medium-sized (SMM) manufacturers in the specified states.

The anticipated funding levels for each state are:
- Kentucky: $6,217,500.00 for 5 years
- Nebraska: $3,978,500.00 for 5 years
- Rhode Island: $6,021,500.00 for 5 years
- South Dakota: $3,561,000.00 for 5 years.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility is limited to United States-based nonprofit institutions or consortium thereof, institutions of higher education, or State, United States territory, local, or tribal governments. Incumbent MEP Centers that have received financial assistance for ten consecutive years and are determined to be in good standing are also eligible to apply under this NOFO.

Period of Performance
The project performance period for each award is up to five (5) years with the possibility for NIST to renew the award on a non-competitive basis for up to an additional 5-year period at the end of the initial award period.

Grant Value
The total anticipated federal funding for each state over the 5-year award period is:
- Kentucky: $6,217,500.00
- Nebraska: $3,978,500.00
- Rhode Island: $6,021,500.00
- South Dakota: $3,561,000.00.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed in the States of Kentucky, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and South Dakota.