Making Sparks

The Quiet Cut That's Loudly Threatening Small Manufacturing


Listen Later

Most small manufacturers don't realize they're being quietly supported by one of the most impactful public-private partnerships in the country. The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) has long been the hidden backbone behind training programs, grant facilitation, process improvements, and critical tech upgrades for shops across the U.S. But recent Federal decisions to defund these programs—without clear communication or reasoning—have sparked confusion and alarm among industry insiders.

In this episode, a passionate roundtable of manufacturers and advocates reveals just how deeply the MEPs have shaped their businesses, supported workforce development, and opened doors to opportunity they couldn't have accessed alone. From AR-integrated quoting tools to automation investment guidance, these stories show a clear economic impact that extends far beyond individual shops—right into the health of local communities and the national manufacturing strategy.

If you're just hearing about MEPs now, you're not alone—but you are at risk. This conversation lays out what's at stake, why it matters, and what you can do right now to help save a resource that quietly powers tens of thousands of manufacturers nationwide.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/WNjevmTNUu4

VideoAsk: https://www.videoask.com/fiyvfkcdd

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Making SparksBy Matthew Nix and Casey Voelker

  • 5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5

5

4 ratings


More shows like Making Sparks

View all
The Job Shop Show by Jay Jacobs

The Job Shop Show

33 Listeners

PBD Podcast by PBD Podcast

PBD Podcast

4,473 Listeners

Welding Business Owner Podcast by Kevin Johnson

Welding Business Owner Podcast

90 Listeners

Machine Shop Mastery by Paul Van Metre

Machine Shop Mastery

30 Listeners