MEP Center State Competition

Background
The NIST Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a program under the U.S. Department of Commerce aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers. The MEP seeks competitive applications from eligible entities to establish and operate MEP Centers in various states, providing comprehensive manufacturing extension services to small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMMs). The goal is to support these manufacturers in improving productivity, integrating supply chains, and accessing technology, thereby fostering a strong manufacturing workforce and enhancing their ability to compete globally.

Grant Details
The grant involves establishing and operating MEP Centers in Idaho, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The centers will provide tailored services to SMMs including process improvement, workforce development, business practices enhancement, and technology transfer. Recipients must establish an Oversight Board or Advisory Committee for governance. Key management functions include budget execution, policy implementation, human resources management, strategic planning, project execution and management. Additionally, recipients are required to maintain accountability for all functions essential to the successful operation of an MEP Center.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include non-Federal entities such as institutions of higher education, state governments, local governments, tribal governments or consortia thereof. Applicants must have or propose an Oversight Board or Advisory Committee structure within 90 days of award start date. Individuals and unincorporated sole proprietors are not eligible to apply. A minimum non-federal cost share of 50% is required.

Period of Performance
The initial award period is five years with potential for an additional five-year period based on performance reviews and funding availability.

Grant Value
In Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), NIST anticipates funding eight cooperative agreements with annual amounts varying by state:
- Idaho: $937,736
- Illinois: $5,811,299
- Minnesota: $3,178,102
- New Jersey: $3,355,074
- New York: $6,877,960
- Washington: $3,111,794
- West Virginia: $713,200
- Wisconsin: $3,836,698
Total funding over five years ranges from $3.57 million in West Virginia to $34.39 million in New York.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed in the states of Idaho, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.