A significant boost is underway for Michigan’s small and medium-sized manufacturers as Automation Alley’s 3D printing network receives substantial funding. This move promises to transform manufacturing practices and enhance economic growth.
LANSING, Michigan
The Michigan Infrastructure Office announced a $1.9 million grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expand Project DIAMOnD. This initiative aims to bring smart manufacturing technologies within reach of small- and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs), enhancing their production capabilities and resilience to supply chain disruptions. The grant aligns with the state governor’s vision of building “Infrastructure for Innovation,” empowering businesses to innovate and thrive in Michigan.
Zachary Kolodin, the chief infrastructure officer and director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office, stated, “Thanks to nearly $2 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding, we’re expanding Project DIAMOnD to ensure more small businesses across Michigan have access to cutting-edge tools that will help them grow their businesses, lower costs, and boost local economies.” This funding reflects Governor Whitmer’s commitment, made at the Mackinac Policy Conference, to expanding Project DIAMOnD and investing in Michigan’s manufacturing future.
The expansion will incorporate 100 SMMs, with at least 40% situated in underserved communities. Participants will benefit from the Project DIAMOnD Digital Transformation Program and the Digital Transformation Center (DTC) in Auburn Hills. The DTC will offer expert guidance in workforce development, technology deployment, and process optimization, enabling SMMs to enhance energy efficiency and competitiveness.
Tom Kelly, Executive Director and CEO of Automation Alley, remarked, “This investment represents an important first step in our vision of scaling Project DIAMOnD statewide to empower small- and medium-sized manufacturers across Michigan.” He credited Oakland County for its pivotal role in the project’s initial success and expressed optimism about the expanded opportunities the new funding will bring to manufacturers.
Launched in 2020, Project DIAMOnD stands for Distributed, Independent, Agile Manufacturing on Demand. The current expansion is facilitated by the U.S. Department of Energy’s State Manufacturing Leadership Program. With financial administration led by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), additional support includes $125,000 from Automation Alley and $475,000 from MEDC. This is the first phase of a statewide initiative aiming to create community centers modeled after the DTC, accessible by SMMs across Michigan’s 83 counties.
Ben Marchionna, Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer for the state through the MEDC, emphasized the collaborative spirit driving Michigan’s innovation surge. “In Michigan, we take pride in our ability to tackle complex challenges head-on, building on our proud culture of innovation that spans generations,” he said, highlighting the importance of public/private partnerships in supporting small businesses and the manufacturing workforce.
Building the Infrastructure for Innovation
This funding aligns with Governor Whitmer’s objectives to develop an “Infrastructure for Innovation” that supports Michigan’s entrepreneurs and manufacturers. By expanding access to advanced tools like 3D printers, Michigan aims to nurture a conducive environment for business growth and technological advancement.
Initiatives like Project DIAMOnD are pivotal in providing the necessary resources and tools for budding entrepreneurs and established businesses alike, fostering a competitive edge for the state in attracting and retaining talent from around the globe.
About the Michigan Infrastructure Office
The Michigan Infrastructure Office is tasked with executing Governor Whitmer’s infrastructure strategy, coordinating state government efforts, and ensuring effective use of resources from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). For more details, visit their website.
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