Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center State Competition
Grant Opportunity Analysis
The National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking applications to establish and operate Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers in 13 states and Puerto Rico. Awardees will assist small and mid-sized manufacturers in accelerating the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies, including robotics, artificial intelligence, automation, biotechnology, and advanced materials. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based non-profit institutions, higher education entities, state, local, or tribal governments, or consortia, and must provide a minimum 50 percent annual non-Federal cost-share. NIST anticipates making up to 14 cooperative agreement awards for an initial five-year period of performance, with projected federal funding ranging from $3.5 million to over $78 million per award. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by August 21, 2026, and inquiries can be directed to Michael Teske at NOFO@nist.gov.
Eligible Applicants
Eligibility for the program listed in this NOFO is open to a United States-based non-profit based institution, an institution of higher education, or a State, United States territory (specifically Puerto Rico), local, or tribal government, or a consortium thereof.