The FY25 MEP State Competition, administered by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), offers cooperative agreements for establishing and managing Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers in 11 designated states: Texas, Tennessee, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Michigan, Virginia, Connecticut, North Carolina, Oregon, Colorado, and Indiana. These Centers will provide essential manufacturing extension services to small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMMs) within their respective regions, becoming part of the larger MEP National Network. The program aims to enhance the productivity, innovation, and competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers by providing resources that drive operational improvement, technology adoption, and workforce development.

The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support SMMs in their efforts to expand market opportunities, improve efficiency, and adopt advanced technologies. Through these Centers, NIST aims to foster a stronger manufacturing ecosystem across the designated states by building connections between manufacturers and government agencies, research institutions, and trade organizations. The program expects awardees to provide a comprehensive suite of services, including supply chain integration, process improvement, and workforce training.

Each award will span an initial five-year period with the possibility of a non-competitive renewal for an additional five years, contingent on the availability of funds and the recipient's performance. Funding levels vary across the states, with annual allocations ranging from $924,376 (New Hampshire) to $8,071,600 (Texas). The Centers must meet a 50% cost-sharing requirement annually, and cost share contributions can include cash, in-kind resources, or third-party donations. Program income, such as client service fees, may also contribute to meeting these requirements.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based non-profit organizations, institutions of higher education, state or local governments, tribal entities, and consortia of these groups. Federal agencies are not eligible for direct funding but may collaborate as partners. Applicants must demonstrate operational capacity by proposing an Oversight Board or Advisory Committee to guide Center activities. This governing structure must meet NIST requirements within 90 days of the award, with board members primarily drawn from small and mid-sized manufacturers.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by January 9, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. Late submissions and paper applications will not be accepted. Key submission components include a project narrative, budget justification, letters of commitment from partners, and evidence of cost-sharing arrangements. Additionally, applicants are required to participate in a kickoff conference within 60 days of receiving the award and must attend network-wide meetings throughout the five-year period.

The review process includes merit reviews by experts and a final panel evaluation by NIST staff. Successful applications will address the specific needs of manufacturers in their state, align with MEP’s strategic goals, and demonstrate a robust financial and operational plan. Award announcements are expected by March 2025, with project start dates projected for July 2025. This opportunity provides a significant avenue for organizations to lead manufacturing transformation and economic growth in their states.