Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Grant Program

The Maryland Department of Commerce’s Manufacturing 4.0 Grant applications open August 1st, 2024! If you are a small to mid-sized manufacturing company that was planning on integrating advanced technologies into your workflow, then this grant was made for you!

The Maryland 4.0 Manufacturing Grant program is designed to inject fresh energy into local manufacturing businesses by financially supporting the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. It's all about bringing the future of manufacturing into today's factories, making them smarter and more efficient!

AS OF AUG 6TH 2024:

Governor Wes Moore announces an additional $11 million in state funding to be applied towards two Maryland Department of Commerce programs that support advanced manufacturing and innovation projects!

This means an additional $4 million will go towards the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Program, taking the total appropriation for the 2025 round of funding from $1 MILLION to $5 MILLION! This substantial increase will allow for more grant awards AND higher average award amounts!

Maryland is offering to cover up to half of your project costs, with grants ranging from $25,000 all the way up to $500,000. Whether it's robotics, digital enhancements, or new software that connects and streamlines your operations, this grant is here to help you afford these big leaps forward!

This grant is aimed at projects that demonstrate a clear tie to Industry 4.0 technologies- so think sensors and AI that will improve your manufacturing process, track preventative maintenance, productivity levels, machine uptime/downtime and more! Let's explore some key ways metal fabricators can harness this grant program to optimize their operations:

Connected Welding or Plasma Cutting Machines for Real-Time Monitoring and Collaboration
Connected machines enable seamless communication and collaboration across the shop floor. Through the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors embedded in machines collect valuable real-time data on equipment performance, consumable consumption, and maintenance needs. This data can be analyzed to identify bottlenecks, optimize production schedules, and ensure proactive maintenance, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.


Employee Training
Don't forget that this grant will also cover employee training and consultative services around 4.0 technologies. So, the costs that always come with using new systems, technologies, or equipment is covered- setting your team up for success!

Automation for Streamlined Tasks and Increased Efficiency
Automation plays a pivotal role in reducing human error, improving precision, and accelerating production cycles. Welding robotic systems or cobots can handle repetitive or labor-intensive tasks with greater speed and accuracy, allowing skilled operators to focus on more complex responsibilities. Additionally, automated cutting tables can greatly assist in consistent component production and productivity.

When applying, it's important to show how the technology you want to implement will transform your business operations and set you up for future successes. Projects must be new or significantly enhance existing capabilities and should not have begun before the grant application period. If you're upgrading with innovative tech like standalone software systems that aren't tied to existing hardware, these are eligible under the grant!

To be eligible for the Maryland 4.0 Manufacturing Grant, your business should already be operational and in good standing with the State of Maryland. It's necessary to employ between 3 and 250 full-time workers, defined as individuals who work at least 1,800 hours over a 12-month period. Your business should fall under the NAICS two-digit codes of 31, 32, or 33, indicating a manufacturing focus, and it must have been established for at least two years. Additionally, compliance with both federal and Maryland-specific Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations is required. Applicants must show not only the capability to implement the proposed project successfully but also a strong commitment or strategic approach to adopting Industry 4.0 technologies. Lastly, the ability to provide matching funds is crucial to demonstrate financial readiness for the anticipated technological upgrades!

Don’t delay! Applications open on August 1st,
​with a AUGUST 30TH, 2024 deadline for ALL submissions!

This initiative isn't just about getting financial help—it's a push to make Maryland manufacturers more competitive and innovative on a global scale.  

​With $4 million in additional funds, this year's Manufacturing 4.0 Program will be able to fund more businesses than ever- your chances of qualifying for funding have never been higher! Plus, total of 20% of the funds are specifically reserved for small manufacturers, so you still have a good chance of receiving funds even if you're a smaller operation. No matter the size, with this grant, your business can harness the power of technology to boost efficiency and expand your capabilities.

For more detailed information about the grant and to start your application, visit Maryland Department of Commerce - Manufacturing 4.0 Grant.

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At Earlbeck Gases & Technologies, we understand the intricacies of Industry 4.0 and the transformative impact it can have on manufacturing operations. We are committed to helping our customers navigate this new world of manufacturing. Our team is here to help you develop a comprehensive plan for your business- tailored to leverage these innovations effectively, letting you make the most of the Maryland 4.0 Manufacturing Grant.


Don't miss this opportunity for a helping hand in advancing your manufacturing capabilities with the latest tech! Reach out today and together we'll ensure you meet your business goals with the Maryland 4.0 Manufacturing Grant.