Purdue MEP Secures Critical National Funding

 

On June 25, 2025, Purdue MEP received notice that its annual funding from NIST Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) will continue through June 2026. The funding through the Department of Commerce ensures Purdue MEP’s ability to provide critical support to the state’s manufacturers, including services ranging from advanced technology implementation to workforce development, supply chain optimization, and general process improvement assistance.

The funding announcement comes after months of uncertainty about the future of the MEP program, when on April 1, MEP centers in 10 states were given notice they would not be funded for the upcoming year, prompting concerns for centers across the country as their agreements came up for renewal. A little over two weeks later, that decision was reversed for those 10 centers.

As Purdue MEP’s agreement came up for renewal on July 1, it was unclear if the center would continue to be funded. Partners across the state, including the Indiana Manufacturers Association, clients, and advocates for the MEP program, reached out to legislators calling for action. The Purdue MEP Board of Advisors penned a letter of support for the program that was published in IndustryWeek on June 17, a little over one week prior to the funding confirmation notice.

“We are incredibly grateful for the vast number of clients and partners who stepped up to show their support for Purdue MEP,” states Ranae Stewart, Senior Executive Director of Purdue MEP. “With manufacturing serving as the leading industry in Indiana, it is vital to have the necessary support in place to guarantee the sector’s continued success. Our Center is proud to work tirelessly alongside these critical businesses to provide timely resources and training. We are appreciative of the opportunity to continue our mission of serving the manufacturers throughout our great state.”

In Indiana, 98% of manufacturers are considered small to medium-sized businesses. Purdue MEP works with these businesses to not only improve their current operations through operational efficiencies but also focus on the future to incorporate advanced technologies, such as AI, automation, and digital transformation. 

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in June, Purdue MEP has provided vital assistance to Indiana’s manufacturers, resulting in over $8 billion in economic impact. This encompasses new and retained sales, new investments, and realized cost savings.

About Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)

Purdue MEP, part of the MEP National Network, provides high-value, affordable, personalized consulting and training services that enable Indiana manufacturers to work smarter, compete, and prosper. We develop more effective business leaders, drive product and process innovation, promote company-wide operational excellence, and foster creative strategies for business growth, workforce development, economic competitiveness, and greater profitability. To learn more, visit www.mep.purdue.edu.

Writer: Julie Warner, 765-496-1200, jawarner@purdue.edu