Manufacturing PA Industrial Resource Center Program

The Manufacturing PA – Industrial Resource Center (IRC) Program is a state-funded initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). It is structured to support a statewide network of Industrial Resource Centers that provide technical assistance, outreach, and strategic services to small and medium-sized manufacturing firms across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This program is authorized under the Commerce Law (Act of May 10, 1939), which enables DCED to promote industrial growth, restore employment, and support economic development statewide. It is closely aligned with Pennsylvania’s Ten-Year Strategic Plan for Economic Development, emphasizing the advancement of the state’s manufacturing sector. The primary objective of the IRC Program is to enhance the productivity, technological advancement, and competitiveness of small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMEs) in Pennsylvania. These centers are regionally designated and expected to serve their respective territories while collaborating statewide. Centers will develop and implement services tailored to regional market needs and consistent with DCED priorities. The services provided include but are not limited to: manufacturing process improvements, quality management, technology and innovation support, workforce development, new product development, supply chain support, and cybersecurity assistance. Funding provided under this program can be used for staff salaries, operational space, travel, administrative costs, equipment, and materials directly related to program service delivery. Services must focus on three key areas: Product (e.g., market expansion, innovation), Process (e.g., operational efficiency, cost savings), and People (e.g., workforce training, hiring processes). Programs may also include advanced manufacturing technology, digital tools, supply chain optimization, and talent pipeline development. All expenses must be properly documented, and ExecutivePulse is the only permitted client management software supported by the grant. Eligibility for this funding is limited to established regional Industrial Resource Centers in Pennsylvania. Each Center must be aligned with at least one Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP) region and demonstrate collaboration with various public and private partners. Applicants are required to submit an annual operating plan and budget using the DCED’s Electronic Single Application system. These submissions must outline regional service strategies, estimated outputs, process metrics, budget justifications, and projected impacts aligned with the state’s strategic plan. Applications are due within 30 days following the release of the official guidelines, which were issued on August 19, 2024. Funding decisions are made following DCED’s evaluation of submitted work plans based on their strategic alignment, regional relevance, service balance, inclusion of underserved manufacturers, and effective use of public funds. Approved centers will be invited to submit an Electronic Single Application, after which funds will be disbursed on a monthly or quarterly reimbursement basis. Invoices for expenditures must be submitted by September 1, 2025, and budget modification requests are due by May 5, 2025. For questions or submissions, contact Jennifer Lench at the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. She can be reached by email at jlench@pa.gov or by phone at (717) 720-7345. All work plans and budgets must be submitted electronically, and a standardized template for impact reporting will be provided by DCED. The grant does not require a program audit for awards under $100,000.