Four years ago, Automation Alley, a nonprofit technology business association and Digital Transformation Insight Center, launched Project DIAMOnD, with the goal of advancing industry 4.0 and 3D printing in North America. As a reminder, Project DIAMOnD stands for Distributed, Independent, Agile Manufacturing on Demand.
The project first received funding from Oakland and Macomb counties and was joined by several tech giants to achieve its vision. On the heels of the launch of its digital transformation center, Automation Alley received $1.9 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to allow small- and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) to adopt smart manufacturing technologies.
The funding will continue to enhance manufacturers’ capabilities through the network of 3D printers implemented, increase production efficiency, reduce emissions, and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Today’s funding announcement will support the expansion of Project DIAMOnD to 100 SMMs, with a minimum of 40% in disadvantaged or underserved communities across the state. Participating companies will have access to the Project DIAMOnD Digital Transformation Program and expert assistance at the Project DIAMOnD Digital Transformation Center (DTC) in Auburn Hills. Experts will work with program participants at DTC to deploy training and workforce development, product and process assessments, roadmapping, and direct technology implementation. This expansion and one-on-one expert support will enhance SMMs’ capabilities in advanced manufacturing, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction, leading to significant energy savings and improved competitiveness across Michigan’s manufacturing sector, a press release reads.
“This investment represents an important first step in our vision of scaling Project DIAMOnD statewide to empower small- and medium-sized manufacturers across Michigan,” said Tom Kelly, Executive Director and CEO of Automation Alley. “Oakland County has been an invaluable partner in spearheading Project DIAMOnD, laying the groundwork for its success and proving the transformative potential of advanced manufacturing technology. With this new support from the state of Michigan, more companies will now have the opportunity to benefit from Project DIAMOnD’s Digital Transformation Center. Together, with the Governor’s leadership, we are advancing toward our shared goal of making Michigan the global leader in advanced manufacturing innovation.”
This expansion is made possible by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) State Manufacturing Leadership Program, with the administration of the funding being led by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Automation Alley is contributing vial matching dollar support of $125,000 and the MEDC is contributing $475,000. The funding announced today is the first step in a full statewide expansion, where communities across Michigan create their own community centers similar to DTC so SMMs in all 83 counties can access a network of 3D printers and expert guidance, a press release concludes.
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