About the SMARTER NC Federal Grant
Watch this video to learn more about the SMARTER NC program
The Benefits of Smart Manufacturing
Improved efficiency
Smart factories can monitor equipment performance and automate complex processes, improving accuracy and reducing human error.
Increased productivity
Smart factories can use data to identify issues, such as when a machine is slowing down production, and then use artificial intelligence systems to resolve them.
Long-term cost savings
Smart factories can use predictive maintenance to identify potential problems early and address them at a convenient time, which can save money.
Greater flexibility
Smart factories can scale production quickly to meet changing demand and can customize products to meet specific customer needs.
How the program works:
The North Carolina Department of Commerce and NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions will:
- Provide awareness and training of smart manufacturing opportunities
- Identify small and medium-sized manufacturers in North Carolina interested in deploying smart manufacturing technologies
SUBMIT AN APPLICATION
The SMARTER NC team will review applications and qualified companies selected to participate will:
- Receive free assessments
- Receive technical assistance with understanding how smart manufacturing projects can improve factory processes and lower energy costs*
- Receive help with new smart manufacturing implementation projects with technology roadmaps, project solution ideas, and matching investment funding: SMARTER NC helps the company define a relevant project that increases production efficiency and lowers energy costs*
*Funding priority will be given to higher energy use projects
The program will be focused on
(but not limited to)
Target Location
(but not limited to)
Prioritize assistance with Small-Medium Manufacturers in 3 targeted rural-based NC prosperity zones
-
Southeast Prosperity Zone
Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Hoke, Montgomery, Richmond, Robeson, Sampson, Scotland
-
Sandhills Prosperity Zone
Craven, Duplin, Greene, Jones, Lenoir, Onslow, Pamlico, Wayne
-
Northwest Prosperity Zone
Alexander, Allegheny, Ashe, Avery, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, McDowell, Mitchell, Watauga, Wilkes, Yancey
Target Industries
(but not limited to manufacturers in)
- Biopharmaceutical
- Metal Fabrication
- Chemical and Polymer
- Food and Beverage
- Automotive and Heavy Equipment Manufacturing
- Textiles
Contact: smarternc_info@ncsu.edu