07.14.16

Hoeven: Department of Commerce Awards $125,000 to Help ND Manufacturers Stay at the Forefront of Innovation

WASHINGTON — Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has awarded $125,000 to Impact Dakota, previously known as the Dakota Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). The funds, awarded by NIST’s Hollings MEP program, will support manufacturers as they work to meet the changing needs of the industry.

“In today’s rapidly changing and increasingly globalized world, it’s important for us to invest in programs that help to ensure our manufacturers stay at the forefront of technology,” Hoeven said. “This funding will help North Dakota’s manufacturers stay at the cutting-edge of innovation so they can continue to remain competitive in the global economy.”

Since 1988, the Hollings MEP has worked to develop dynamic manufacturing communities and enhance American innovation. Through its collaborations at the federal, state and local levels, MEP helps manufacturers develop new products and customers, expand into international markets and adopt new technologies. MEP works to create value for all manufacturers, but has a strong commitment to helping small and mid-sized enterprises.

As a public/private partnership, MEP delivers a high return on investment to taxpayers. For every dollar of federal investment, MEP clients generate nearly $19 in new sales, translating into $2.5 billion annually.

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