WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced $200,000 for the Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) to support local manufacturing businesses and create job opportunities in Western Maryland. This federal funding, awarded by the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) grant program, will provide support to manufacturers of renewable energy, hydrogen power, low-carbon and decarbonized power, smart grid improvements, electric vehicles, and green buildings through training, technical assistance, supply chain mapping, and guidance on factory upgrades.
The funding was made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which the lawmakers fought to pass.
“Manufacturing is a key part of our state’s economy – especially for so many communities across Western Maryland – and these federal funds from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will generate quality job opportunities for Marylanders while taking critical steps toward building the clean energy economy of the future. This is a win-win for strengthening our economy and protecting our environment,” said the lawmakers.
The award is part of a larger $10 million investment to Catalyst Connection based in Pittsburgh, Pa., which is collaborating with MEPs serving the ARC states of Maryland, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia to strengthen the ability of manufacturers to succeed in clean energy and green technology.
Since 2013, Maryland MEP has administered the State MEP program, serving a community of nearly 4,000 manufacturers, stakeholders, and partners that are proud to “Make It in Maryland.” These efforts have resulted in a $2 billion economic impact and the creation of more than 8,000 jobs within the manufacturing sector in the State.
The ARC is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, and local governments. Established by Congress in 1965, ARC is comprised of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a federal co-chair, who is appointed by the President. Local participation is provided through multi-county local development districts.
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