Dear Valued Partners,
When we needed you ~ you delivered!
Early April, NIST, a part of the U. S. Department of Commerce, announced a funding cut to 10 state MEP programs. Although Ohio was not included in this round, we couldn’t ignore the potential for a similar fate this Fall.
To date, those 10 states have had funding restored for six months (not the full year). Although that is helpful, it does not mean the program is secure. In fact, NIST has indicated it remains under further evaluation.
Being a business right now is hard, manufacturing essential products to keep America moving forward is critical. It is not the time to cripple the only national network dedicated to improving the competitiveness, productivity, and technological performance in U. S. manufacturing.
We have spent 30 years responding to the challenges you face, exploring new technologies, increasing visibility of the industry in order to build a workforce pipeline, and creating a platform for exceptional networking with your peers.
Since 2016, CIFT has assisted in the creation of 2,185 jobs, retained 7,836 jobs, assisted in $123 million of sales and worked with companies who have invested more than $322 million back into Ohio’s economy. The results demonstrate value while the assistance provided has built credibility. We measure ourselves by your success so we remain diligent in serving as a resource to your needs today, tomorrow, and into the future.
The fight is not over! Keep sharing your stories and recommend continued support of the MEP program to your local legislators. Your voice is being heard.
We are grateful for your responsiveness and remain poised to meet your needs.
With humble appreciation,
Rebecca Singer
President/CEO
CIFT