Digital Foundry at New Kensington awarded $1.5M

The ARM Institute, a Pittsburgh-based robotics manufacturing innovation institute, recently awarded the Digital Foundry at New Kensington, an initiative of Penn State New Kensington and the Economic Growth Connection of Westmoreland, a $1.5 million grant as part of southwestern Pennsylvania’s New Economy Collaborative.

The Digital Foundry offers technical assistance and skills training in robotics and digital manufacturing technologies for small- to mid-sized manufacturers and K-16 educators and students. It was one of four organizations to receive funding.

The Digital Foundry will use the funding to expand its technology offerings and work force and robotics trainings, and strengthen its partnership with The Corner Launchbox, Penn State New Kensington’s Invent Penn State innovation hub.

“Funds from this grant will support the purchase of additional software, equipment and tools for producing prototype products and mechanical and electrical operating systems in the areas of robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced smart manufacturing and 3D printing,” Sherri McCleary, Digital Foundry executive director, said. “It will also support completion of additional workshop space available for technical makers and entrepreneurs and expand our training, mentoring and technical assistance programs for existing and startup manufacturers and makers.”

The ARM Institute will advise grant recipients and help to expand the scope of their services.