If the COVID-19 pandemic knocked your business off course, Arizona Manufacturing Extension Partnership (Arizona MEP) can help you get it back on track. Through the NIST MEP Emergency Assistance Program, you can access high-level manufacturing services and have these services partly paid for through the CARES Act. Now is the time to tackle critical business and operational improvements with Arizona MEP’s high-quality manufacturing and business experts and services.
“We have accepted over 150 companies into the program since August,” said Greg Bischak, Arizona MEP senior client advisor. “Some common things we have been helping manufacturers with are business strategy and new business development, financial assessment to help improve cash flow and improving inefficient manufacturing operations,” added Bischak.
How can I apply to the program?
To get started, Arizona MEP is encouraging Arizona manufacturers to apply here. The simple application asks questions about your business and the services needed. All information is kept confidential. Here is some of the information requested:
- Number of employees
- Revenue for 2018, 2019 and 2020
- Business' top three challenges before the pandemic
- Which services would be most beneficial
“After the application is submitted and approved, we follow up with an in-depth assessment questionnaire that asks for more detail about the various aspects of the business that have been the most challenging during the pandemic and which services might be the most helpful for the company in its current situation,” said Bischak. “Arizona MEP will review the assessment with the client and identify and help prioritize the MEP services areas that would be most beneficial.”
How much is subsidized and when do we start?
After the assessment, a proposal for services will be presented with the total cost of services and the subsidy amount. When the proposal is accepted and the project is awarded the subsidy, the work can begin. The application and approval process can be completed in two to three weeks.
What services are offered in the program?
Arizona MEP is the go-to resource for manufacturers. The client advisors have experience that includes manufacturing operations, supply chain, human resources, sales, business development and financial management.
Here are some areas of assistance covered under the program:
- Strategic planning and identification of new markets
- Rebuilding customer demand
- Overcoming supply chain disruptions
- Financial and cash flow management
- Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement
- Staffing, training and workforce development
- Maintaining a safe workplace in a COVID-19 world
- Cybersecurity risk assessment and compliance planning
Take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen your business operations and get a portion of the project paid for through funding made available by the CARES Act. The program and funding end on June 30, 2021. Take action today.
For detailed FAQ and to apply to the program, go to the Arizona MEP Emergency Assistance Program.