The Answers Massachusetts Advanced Manufacturers Need
Q: I am a business with challenges related to skills training and filling open positions. Do you have a program that could help me?
A: Yes, there are several programs in MA that could be very helpful if you are a manufacturer looking for skilled workers and training for people you employ today. One key tool you might find valuable is Registered Apprenticeships. This is a comprehensive skills training program that combines on-the-job learning with related classroom instruction. It's designed to help businesses like yours develop a highly skilled workforce, reduce turnover rates, increase productivity, and more.
Furthermore, MassMakes’ partners across the state can assist in connecting you with the skilled workforce you need. They aim to streamline the hiring process and give you access to a talent pool that matches your specific requirements. Taken together, these programs offer a comprehensive approach to addressing skills training and recruitment challenges in the business sector, supporting the creation of jobs.
Q: As a manufacturer, we go through OSHA training annually and for all new employees we hire. Is there assistance to help with this?
A: Yes, there is assistance available for your OSHA training needs. The MA Office of Safety has a Workplace Safety Training Grant program that provides financial support, up to $25,000, to companies and organizations operating within the state. This program is aimed at reducing the risk of injuries and illnesses in the workplace.
The grant is particularly focused on first-time applicants, small to midsize businesses, and those with strong program designs addressing worksite injuries or promoting injury prevention. You can use the funds for a range of training topics, which includes OSHA 10 or 30, fall protection, ergonomics, CPR/AED, and more.
Q: We are about to undertake a significant skills training program for newly hired employees over the next 90-days. Are there any resources available to help us?
A: Yes, there are resources available to assist with your skills training program. The Workforce Training Fund Program (WTFP) offers various grants to MA employers for training current and newly hired employees. The goal is to support businesses that may not otherwise invest in workforce training without financial assistance.
Businesses of all sizes can apply for General Program Training Grants of up to $250,000 to train current and newly hired workers. Additionally, if your company has fewer than 100 employees, there's also the Express Program that offers up to $3,000 per person, per training course reimbursement.
Q: I am a manufacturer contemplating a significant investment in capital equipment. Are there any programs designed to assist me with this purchase?
A: Absolutely, there are a few programs in the Commonwealth to consider that are designed to help qualifying advanced manufacturers with significant capital equipment investments. One of these is the Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2). This state-supported program focuses on fostering the development of next-generation technologies and economic growth. In addition to M2I2, there is the Massachusetts Manufacturing Accelerator Program (MMAP). MMAP supports small and medium-sized businesses in Massachusetts aiming to scale their operations and create new jobs. Lastly, MassDevelopment offers a variety of financing options, including loans and guarantees, that may be of assistance with your capital equipment purchase.
Q: Our overhead costs have increased significantly, and our energy costs, in particular, have skyrocketed. What is available to help businesses offset some of these increases?
A: There is a program designed specifically to help MA businesses with their rising energy costs. The Mass Manufacturing Energy Collaborative (MassMEC), in partnership with EarlyBird Power, is designed to help your manufacturing business save on energy costs by bundling your energy needs with those of other businesses.
Q. Our company's lease is up. We are a business looking to expand and locate in MA. Is there anything to help me navigate and finance the purchase of a new facility?
A: Yes, there are several programs in MA designed to assist businesses in navigating and financing the purchase of a new facility. MassDevelopment, a major resource for growth, innovation, and success, offers a wide array of services and programs beneficial to businesses. They provide tax-exempt bonds, loans, and guarantees that can be used for various needs such as facility upgrades, renovations, construction, and more.
Q. My company is in development on a brand new technology that could change the marketplace. The R&D is going to be intensive and time-to-market could be long. Are there services available to assist us in this process?
A: Yes, the Commonwealth offers several services that can assist qualified manufacturers in the development of a new groundbreaking technology. Firstly, the Collaborative Research Matching Grant Program, administered by the Innovation Institute at MassTech Collaborative, supports R&D and infrastructure projects in partnership with research institutions and technology firms.
Secondly, there's the Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2). M2I2 focuses on fostering the development of cutting-edge technologies, through collaboration between industry players and higher educational institutions. With these resources, qualifying manufacturers in advanced manufacturing can receive additional support to innovate and thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.