ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore this week announced the recipients of the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 program, an initiative that provides grants to small and mid-sized Maryland manufacturers to invest in Industry 4.0 technologies. The grants, made possible through the Maryland Department of Commerce, provide 23 businesses with a total of nearly $1 million to modernize their operations.
“Investing in Maryland’s manufacturing industry helps keep our state’s maker and business communities thriving,” said Governor Wes Moore. “Resources like the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 grant program will ensure that the industries remain innovative and competitive, and ultimately bring more business opportunities to Maryland.”
Similar to smart manufacturing, which emphasizes the role of new technology in manufacturing, Industry 4.0 represents the fourth industrial revolution, focusing on the digitization and automation of manufacturing facilities to help companies remain competitive and drive business growth.
Anticipated outcomes from investing in Industry 4.0 technologies could include increased productivity and sales, cost savings, retention of employees, and more.
“We are delighted to award 23 local businesses with grants from our Manufacturing 4.0 program,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Kevin A. Anderson. “These grants will impact businesses in each region of our state – including Western and Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore – and we couldn’t be happier to help them succeed as the manufacturing industry evolves.”
Examples of the projects approved for funding include purchasing an automated canning system for brewing; investing in employee training software for machinery; and utilizing a robot to transport inventory.
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