Special Initiatives
The IRC Network is proud to be part of several special initiatives, involving channel partners, economic development organizations and other statewide leaders.
PA Manufacturing Innovation Program
The goal of this program is to enable PA universities and colleges to seamlessly bring their capabilities to bear on industry led projects and position the Commonwealth at the forefront of the next wave of manufacturing innovation. A main component of this program is the Manufacturing Fellows Initiative which will support designated undergraduate and graduate student fellows at PA universities to work with PA manufacturers. University faculty/students will address projects identified by industry to help advance product or process innovations.
Broadband in Manufacturing Technical Assistance
The IRC Network is working with small and medium-sized Pennsylvania manufacturers to complete technology assessments for the development of a broadband technology plan and increase adoption and implementation of broadband technology tools.
Pennsylvania Network for Open Innovation
On behalf of the IRC Network, Catalyst Connection is leading a state-wide initiative to help manufacturers implement and utilize an open innovation strategy. Open innovation is a critical tool for increasing speed to market with more promising innovations, resulting in accelerated business growth.
Dream It. Do It. PA – Workforce Development
Dream It. Do It. PA is a multi-regional workforce development partnership led by the Manufacturing Resource Center. Its mission is to raise awareness of the promising technical career opportunities available in today’s advanced manufacturing world.
Make it in America Supplier Scouting
The Pennsylvania IRCs/Manufacturing Extension Partnerships are partnering with manufacturers and partners to celebrate great “Made in the USA” products while also finding more business opportunities for American manufacturers.
America Makes -National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute
The Pennsylvania IRCs are partners in the $30 million Department of Defense investment to develop a consortium partnerships between dozens of companies, universities and nonprofit organizations in Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.