NIST Announces $70M Funding for AI-Focused Manufacturing USA Institute

Concept papers for the first stage of the application process are due by Sept. 30, 2024.

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.

Official Statements

“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

• Building an educated & skilled workforce

• Creating shared infrastructure and facilities

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 Sept. 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, and 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.