Small-to Medium-sized Manufacturers to serve Colorado

The Small Manufacturing Recovery Grants (SMRG) program is administered by Manufacturer’s Edge, an organization dedicated to supporting the growth and resilience of small to medium-sized manufacturers in Colorado. With a strong presence in the manufacturing support ecosystem, Manufacturer’s Edge offers consulting, training, and technical assistance, often in partnership with public entities, to boost operational excellence and competitiveness among manufacturers. This grant initiative is funded through a one-time allocation from the State of Colorado, intended to ease the economic burden for rural manufacturers who have been affected by recent challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The SMRG program is designed to provide rural manufacturers with access to high-value consulting engagements that would normally cost more than most small operations could afford. Specifically, Tier 2 projects, which are valued at $10,000, can be obtained for just $2,500 by eligible applicants, with the remaining $7,500 subsidized by the program’s funding. These engagements include specialized services such as operational improvement and data-driven decision-making, aimed at modernizing and optimizing small manufacturing operations. Eligibility for the current round of funding is restricted to rural Colorado manufacturers that have experienced negative pandemic-related impacts. These impacts may include loss of sales, increased costs, or workforce challenges. The program does not currently provide funding to home-based businesses. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their manufacturing status and their rural location to be considered. There is no indication that non-manufacturing or urban businesses are eligible for this funding round. The SMRG application process is straightforward and user-friendly. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with responses issued within 10 business days from submission. There are no pre-application deadlines or letters of intent required, and the process remains open as long as funding is available. Manufacturer’s Edge encourages applicants to stay updated through their LinkedIn page or by regularly checking the program’s website for future rounds or new grant availability, as eligibility criteria and available services may change. Evaluation of applications appears to be internal and based on demonstrated need, geographic eligibility, and pandemic impact. While applicants can indicate preferred consulting services, acceptance of a specific project is not guaranteed. Instead, follow-up conversations help determine the most suitable engagement for each selected manufacturer. The number of grants awarded and total program funding have not been disclosed. For additional information or inquiries, applicants can contact Manufacturer’s Edge at their headquarters in Lakewood, Colorado. The listed contact number is 303-709-9054. No specific email contact or personnel name was provided for the grant. Grant recipients will be guided through next steps upon approval, with an emphasis on impactful, affordable solutions that deliver measurable benefits to Colorado’s rural manufacturing sector.