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MEP - Government assistance for your manufacturing training and projects



If you need a local, trusted, and vetted consultant for Lean guidance, check out the MEP.   Contact your local office and invite them for a tour and a discussion to learn what might be available.  They will not charge you for the visit. 


"The MEP National Network comprises the National Institute of Standards and Technology's Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP).  There are 51 MEP Centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.  The Manufacturing Extension Partnership is a federally funded program that helps small- to medium-sized businesses plan, execute, and maintain strategies and training for a strong manufacturing business.  The MEP works with small and mid-sized U.S. manufacturers to help them create and retain jobs, increase profits, and save time and money.  The nationwide network provides a range of services, from innovation strategies and process improvements to green manufacturing.


I have worked at several MEP locations across the United States. If they can obtain funding or services for you, they are also obligated to conduct periodic assessments and report them to the government to evaluate their effectiveness in fulfilling their responsibilities to support the manufacturing sector.  One other valuable item I discovered is that if you are a member of a local roundtable discussion group, their local office has many on-site consultants who can deliver excellent presentations on a wide range of powerful topics.  Some MEP offices also offer free in-person or online presentations on new or evolving manufacturing strategies. I would recommend signing up for event notifications.


​Supported by the Federal and State Governments, MEP is a public-private partnership designed from inception as a cost-share program.  Federal appropriations pay one-half, with the balance for each Center funded by state / local governments, private entities, and client fees.  This cost-share model contributes to MEP's success.  A GAO study found that because client fees give manufacturers a higher stake in the outcome of services, the positive impact on their businesses is greater.  Public funding allows smaller manufacturers to afford services.  NIST MEP uses 2 CFR 200 to monitor and govern the recipients' use of federal funds.


You can find your local MEP office at this link

For more information about the National Institute of Standards and Technology – MEP program:

·         https://www.nist.gov/mep/about-nist-mep  - How it works

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