Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania announced Tuesday the Manufacturing PA Innovation Program Request for Proposals has been released.
The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) is seeking proposals from Pennsylvania colleges and universities for researcher-led projects that would advance product or process innovation with a Pennsylvania manufacturer. Nearly $1.9 million will be available to fund the research projects, with awards ranging from $25,000 to $70,000.
The goal of the Manufacturing PA Innovation Program, officials said, is to leverage the science and engineering talent in the state’s higher education institutions as a way to solidify Pennsylvania’s place as a national and international leader in manufacturing, while helping the state achieve its economic potential for manufacturing jobs.
The DCED said any Pennsylvania manufacturers interested in partnering with a university or college on a project can complete an inquiry form on the Manufacturing PA website. That information will be circulated to colleges and universities throughout the state that are associated with the program. DCED will then provide the company with names of faculty members who are interested in partnering with the company.
Applications for the funding are due by 5 p.m., Nov. 18, 2021. More information and a proposal submission link is available at manufacturingPA.org.