Maryland announces $2 million in high-tech manufacturing grants

The Maryland Economic Development Association announced January 2 that Gov. Wes Moore announced the latest tranche of 22 small and medium manufacturing businesses in the state to receive grants from the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 program. According to MEDA, the state’s Department of Commerce awarded $2 million and supported 1,100 jobs this year.

According to MEDA, the grants are intended to increase manufacturers’ use of Industry 4.0 technology, which includes the implementation of high-tech, data-collecting and automation technology in manufacturing processes.

The money will go towards 22 different companies for a variety of projects, including equipment for fabricating circuit boards, automated batching and robotic tray systems and AI integration. On average, each of the 22 companies got about $90,859. The largest individual grant, $350,000 for Marlin Steel Wire Products LLC of Baltimore, Maryland, will go towards “an advanced hybrid laser-punch system with advanced automation and ERP/CAD connectivity to increase sheet-metal production capacity” and efficiency.

What people are saying

“Investing in advanced technologies allows Maryland’s businesses to modernize their operations, remain competitive, and drive economic growth in our state,” said Gov. Moore. “We’re proud to support the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 program’s continued success and ensure that local businesses have innovative resources to help them thrive.”

“Since its inception, the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 program has awarded nearly $9 million to 113 businesses across the state,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, Jr. “This additional funding will bolster Maryland’s manufacturing industry – including everything from aircraft assembly to fabric and wallpaper production – as we continue to build the businesses of tomorrow.”

Manufacturers investing in Maryland

AstraZeneca to spend $2 billion on expanding Maryland biologics operations
The British pharmaceutical says it will expand its Frederick flagship factory and build a new molecule factory in Gaithersburg.

Hitachi opens new $100 million railcar plant in Maryland
The new factory will use monitoring systems and AI programs to monitor manufacturing processes, supplies, and energy use in real time.

AeroVironment opens $12.5M defense research and manufacturing facility in Maryland
The Germantown facility will help accelerate the development of next-generation defense technologies, including phased array antennas, perimeter security systems, and AI solutions.