NIST Launches $20 Million Pilot for 3D-Printed Airplane Parts
Published Date: 5/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is launching a fun new pilot program to help small and medium manufacturers speed up using cool tech like 3D printing for airplane parts and building a strong U.S. supply chain for important minerals. This program will give about $20 million over two years to existing MEP centers to lead the way. If you’re in manufacturing or tech, get ready to team up and apply soon!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
$20M Per Pilot over 2 Years
NIST expects to commit approximately $20,000,000 per pilot project over a 2-year period, using funds appropriated in 2025 and 2026. The funding will support the pilot projects run by selected MEP center awardees.
Two Focus Areas: Additive & Minerals
The pilot program will focus on two topics: (1) additive manufacturing for aerospace components, and (2) accelerating establishment of a domestic critical minerals supply chain. Applicants should align proposals to one of these topics.
Shared Tech Frameworks to Help SMMs
Applicants are expected to develop and validate shared technology frameworks that help small- and medium-sized manufacturers establish capabilities for future production, accelerate acceptance of advanced manufacturing methods, and reduce barriers to entry into new markets.
Only Current MEP Centers Eligible
The competition will be open only to current MEP Center primary awardees and to consortiums of current MEP Center primary awardees. Potential applicants should be existing MEP centers or consortia that include them.
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