Press Releases

The U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded $24,791,450 in grants for economic development projects promoting additive manufacturing technologies. The breakdown of the grants is as follows:

• $16,972,068 to support the Virginia Tech College of Engineering in designing products that employ additive manufacturing processes
• $4,413,327 to support the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in training 2,000 workers in advanced manufacturing skills through expanded apprenticeship programs
• $3,406,055 to help the New River Valley Regional Commission in expanding the local additive manufacturing industry

“Additive manufacturing and advanced materials processing operations continue to grow in the region, as highlighted by recent announcements that MELD Manufacturing of Christiansburg will build a new 12,000-square foot facility,” said U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith. “These EDA grants for nearly $25 million help our region expand its additive manufacturing base, generate local manufacturing jobs and strengthen economic development coalitions. This money is to be supported by additional money from the region and industry partners.” 

“President Trump promised to bring advanced manufacturing back to America, and this grant delivers in southern and southwest Virginia. Nearly $25 million in federal funding supported by $195 million in total commitments will train 2,000 workers and give local manufacturers the test beds to design, prototype, and bring new products to market faster than ever before,” said U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

BACKGROUND

These funds were made possible through the EDA Disaster Supplemental Grant Program.

Ninth District private sector partners also making commitments to these various projects include Hollingsworth and Vose as well as MELD Manufacturing. Coalition partners also include the Roanoke-Blacksburg Innovation Alliance and Virginia Manufacturing Association.

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