Award Competition for Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center in the State of Florida

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking applications to operate a Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center in the state of Florida. The MEP Center will provide manufacturing extension services to small and mid-sized manufacturers in Florida, and will become part of the MEP National Network. The award is expected to be for up to 5 years, with a total anticipated federal funding of $26,596,000. Eligible applicants include United States-based nonprofit institutions, institutions of higher education, state, local, or tribal governments, or a consortium thereof. The applicant must have or propose an Oversight Board or Advisory Committee structure, and must provide a plan for establishing such structure if it is not already in place. The applicant must also demonstrate the ability to provide core management and oversight functions, including budget execution, policy implementation, human resources management, and strategic planning. • Key services to be provided by the MEP Center include process improvement, workforce development, business practices, and technology transfer and implementation. • The MEP Center will work directly with area manufacturers to provide expertise and services tailored to their most critical needs. • The MEP Center will also connect manufacturers with government and trade associations, universities and research laboratories, and other public and private resources to help them realize individual business goals. • The applicant must demonstrate a clear understanding of the MEP program and its requirements, and must provide a detailed plan for establishing and operating the MEP Center. • The applicant must also demonstrate the ability to provide matching funds, with a non-federal cost share of at least 50 percent of the total annual allowable project costs.