Our team is always looking for ways to enhance our capabilities, improve cybersecurity, and expand our manufacturing efforts. Recently, we’ve started exploring grant opportunities that align with our vision for growth and innovation. Three key programs that we are pursuing include: the Massachusetts Cybersecurity Program (MCP) Grant, the Mass Manufacturing Accelerated Program (MMAP), and the Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2).
The Manufacturing Cybersecurity Program (MCP) is designed to help small and mid-sized manufacturers enhance their cybersecurity infrastructure. With increasing cyber threats, businesses must strengthen network security, comply with industry requirements, and expand their market opportunities.
MCP provides funding for cybersecurity capital equipment like badge readers, cameras, servers, network switches, and firewalls. However, software is not covered under this program.
To date, MCP has awarded grants to 22 manufacturers, totaling $588,483. The program continues to expand, with a focus on priority sectors such as bio-industrial manufacturing, robotics, and climate technology.
MMAP has provided $13.9 million in funding to 76 small and mid-sized manufacturers across Massachusetts. This program helps businesses invest in new equipment, upskill employees, and adopt Industry 4.0 technologies. Over 400 manufacturing employees have been trained through MMAP, and approximately 29% of applications have been funded.
Eligible projects must demonstrate operational improvements, efficiency gains, and workforce training. Priorities are given to industries such as defense/aerospace, electrification technologies, additive manufacturing, and robotics.
The Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2) provides state grant funding to help innovators who are ready to begin manufacturing their hardtech technologies. It supports various sectors, including electronics, bio-industrial manufacturing, robotics, and additive manufacturing. These grants reimburse capital equipment purchases that will remain in Massachusetts.
Applications should include a technical project to advance a hardtech product to manufacturing and a community benefit initiative that supports Massachusetts residents.
The business landscape is evolving rapidly, and securing funding through these programs could be a game-changer for our operations. Each of these initiatives supports businesses like ours in different but complementary ways.
We’re excited about the possibilities these programs present and are actively working toward submitting applications in the coming months. As we navigate the process, we’ll be sharing updates on our progress, so stay tuned!
If you are a fellow manufacturer or innovator and are interested to learn more, please contact the Mass Tech Collaborative at www.masstech.org.