Provide services to expand existing MEP capabilities to provide national supply chain optimization and to establish a supply chain intelligence network

The University of Rhode Island Research Foundation will deliver supply chain optimization and intelligence network services through a $400,000 cooperative agreement award from the National Institute of Standards and Technology under the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program. The two-year award will establish the Rhode Island Manufacturing Supply Chain Collaborative to optimize supply chains for at least five small and medium manufacturing enterprises in the state. Services will include matching manufacturers to organizations seeking suppliers and engaging at least one original equipment manufacturer. The collaborative will be made up of existing organizations supporting manufacturers and will take a systematic approach to discovery, development, and implementation of supply chain improvements. No subawards are planned under the award effective June 1, 2023 through May 31, 2025.

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to provide services to expand existing MEP 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 rhode island.

Activities

Create the rhode island manufacturing supply chain collaborative (RI mscc) that will be made up of organizations that currently support manufacturers in varying degrees. Creating a systematic approach to optimizing supply chains through regular discovery, development and implementation.

Expected outcomes

RI mscc will engage at least one original equipment manufacturer (OEM); make over five matches connecting small and medium-sized manufacturers (smms) to organizations seeking suppliers; and optimize five company supply chains. Polaris MEP will partner with sustainment and supply RI, two platforms designed to connect smms that potentially fit a supply chain related request or need to a company. The RI mscc leadership will be briefed on all activities on a quarterly basis. Meet with companies participating under this award to identify effectiveness of the program and seek opportunities to improve the initiative.

Intended beneficiaries

Small and medium-sized manufacturers (smms) in the state of rhode island.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.