NGen AI For Manufacturing Challenge

To apply for this program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• The project must involve at least two contributing partners, one of which must be a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) with fewer than 500 employees globally.
• The partnership must include at least one manufacturing partner and one company specializing in AI technology.
• Partners may be for-profit businesses or not-for-profit organizations that support and finance research and development, with funding primarily coming from private-sector sources.
• Sub-contractors or consultants cannot be considered as project partners.
• All participants in the project must be NGen members. There is no cost to become a member.

Projects must focus on the development and commercialization of AI-driven advanced manufacturing technologies. Examples include:

• Improving system performance within manufacturing sites and supply chains.
• Creating new AI-powered manufacturing solutions, such as robotics or automation tools.
• Strengthening cybersecurity for manufacturing processes and facilities.
• Prototyping and testing materials, products, and processes.
• Innovating in AI-based manufacturing tools, capabilities, or services.

Additionally, projects must pay a one-time, non-refundable administration fee to NGen equal to 2.5% of the project’s total cost, due at the time of contracting before the project begins.

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