A total of $1 million has been awarded to help more than two dozen manufacturers invest in Industry 4.0 technologies.

These 26 small and mid-sized Maryland companies have received grant funding through the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 program to promote industry innovation. The full list of recipients – including AeroLab; FutureMakers; McCutcheon's Apple Products; and N5 Sensors – can be found here.

Similar to Smart Manufacturing, which emphasizes the role of new technology in manufacturing, Industry 4.0 represents the fourth industrial revolution, focusing on the digitization and automation of manufacturing facilities to help companies remain competitive and drive business growth. Anticipated outcomes from investing in Industry 4.0 technologies could include increased productivity and sales, cost savings, retention of employees, and more.

Examples of projects approved for funding include advanced technology sewing machines to produce custom clothing and apparel; a laser marker to produce microwave components; and programmable machine tools to produce sustainable custom architectural moldings.

To learn more about the program, visit commerce.maryland.gov/m4grant.