Implement projects to expand existing MEP national network capabilities to provide national supply chain optimization and to establish a supply chain intelligence network

The South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP), doing business as Scmep, received a $400,000 cooperative agreement award from the Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program (CFDA 11.611) to implement supply chain optimization projects and establish a supply chain intelligence network from June 1, 2023 through May 31, 2025. SCMEP will employ one full-time staff member to administer a program focused on improving supply chain connectivity and identifying best practices for South Carolina manufacturers. Activities will include participation in the NIST MEP National Supply Chain Optimization Program across four elements: Connex Marketplace, supplier scouting, education and awareness of effective strategies, and supply chain mapping. Intended outcomes are increased business opportunities and improved supply chain diversity, resiliency and strength for participating South Carolina small and medium-sized manufacturers.

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to implement projects to expand existing MEP national network capabilities to provide national supply chain optimization and to establish a supply chain intelligence network. Improve the resiliency and optimization for domestic supply chains in the MEP national network in the state of south carolina.

Activities

Scmep will employ a full-time equivalent (FTE) to administer a program that focuses on improving supply chain connectivity and identifying supply chain best practices for the south carolina manufacturing community. Scmep will support the NIST MEP national supply chain optimization program with activities in four main elements: connex marketplace, NIST MEP supplier scouting, education and awareness of effective supply chain strategies, and supply chain mapping.

Expected outcomes

Scmep expects increased business opportunities at a state and national level for participating south carolina manufacturers. The program will allow south carolina manufacturers to identify alternate suppliers and therefore improve supply chain diversity, resiliency, and strength. The program will increase the number of companies scmep engages with on an annual basis. Scmep will identify, qualify, and select third-party contractors to perform the supply chain mapping project element.

Intended beneficiaries

Small and medium-sized manufacturers (smms) in the state of south carolina.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.