Maryland Manufacturers: Build Your Industry 4.0 Technology Grant Proposal Now with SC&H

Many manufacturers lack the time and resources to implement the technology upgrades they need to stay competitive. Until now. On May 8, 2023, Governor Wes Moore signed a bill approving the Industry 4.0 Technology Grant Program and Fund (TGF) to help small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) Maryland-based manufacturers invest in Industry 4.0 technology and drive competitive growth in a globalized market.

The program will allocate $1 million in funds in fiscal years 2024 through 2028. While this grant pool remains the same as the pilot program, the awards are much larger for awardees—at least $25,000 and up to $500,000—which means the competition will be much fiercer.

Application Timeline and Rules of Engagement

Our contact at the Department of Commerce has provided us with early access to the following information:

July 1, 2023: The application and rules of engagement will be released to the public

July 15, 2023: The Department of Commerce will begin accepting submissions

October 2023: The final application deadline will be in mid-October, the exact date is pending.

December 31, 2023: Awards will have been announced.

Grants will be awarded based on a company’s ability to craft an actionable implementation plan, show a commitment to Industry 4.0 technology, and clearly articulate the positive impact of the proposed project. Building a detailed proposal of this scale requires significant time and resources. If you’re interested in pursuing this grant, the clock is already ticking.

Additional Significant Information About TGF

We anticipate only 12-15 manufacturers will be selected

80% of the grant money will be awarded to medium-sized manufacturers with up to 150 employees

20% of the grant money will be awarded to small manufacturers with less than 50 employees

Companies must demonstrate the ability to match a predetermined percentage of awarded funds (and meet eligibility requirements)

Awardees must demonstrate the success of their project to receive the full grant award

In January 2024, awardees will receive 50% of their grant money and the remainder will be provided at the end of the year cycle upon demonstration of success and proof of receipts

Secure Your Tech-Forward Future With SC&H Group

In a fiercely competitive grant environment, your application must stand out. By partnering with our experienced team of CIO-level technology advisors, you will gain strategic IT planning, grant writing support, and the technical expertise needed to drive success in four critical areas:

#1 Articulate Your Technology Needs Clearly and Concisely

As IT experts, we’ll analyze your technology issues, propose solutions, and guide you in aligning technology initiatives with your business goals. Learn more about how SC&H accomplishes this.

#2 Build a Compelling Business Case with a Competitive Edge

Our expert advisors will help create a compelling business case for securing the grant you need. “It’s not sufficient to simply say your business needs updated technology,” says Sarah Sedlak, Vice President at SC&H Group. “Applicants must prove why particular tech initiatives are important to their business, how it fits into their overall plan, and what ROI it will bring for their business.” Our team excels at this.

#3 Prepare an Application that Meets All Requirements

Leverage our connections at the Department of Commerce for seamless application assistance. We’ll provide you with a meticulously crafted application that follows industry best practices, helping to position your business ahead of the competition. We have the requirements checklist, and we’re ready to get to work for you.

#4 Leverage Implementation Support After the Grant is Awarded

With the grant in hand, SC&H becomes your dedicated IT support for smooth project deployment. “The Department of Commerce emphasizes the need for a skilled technology team with relevant experience, but many businesses lack this expertise,” says Sedlak. Since the government intends to closely monitor these projects—and could withhold part of the funds if targets are not achieved—you don’t want to leave your success up to chance.

Build a Comprehensive Grant Proposal with SC&H: Time is Limited

Our Technology Advisory team is assisting manufacturers in creating a compelling grant proposal. The sooner you start, the quicker you maximize your odds for success. Get Started Now!