Extension programs help small US firms

Manufacturing assistance programs at the state and federal levels are examined. The US government has in the past year earmarked some US $350 million for programs intended to improve manufacturing. These funds have generally been targeted at small and mid-sized manufacturing enterprises with less than 500 employees. State programs are of three types: active programs, which include services from technical needs assessment to consultation assistance; broker programs, which provide limited direct assistance but put industrial clients in touch with people who can help; and passive programs, which provide information only. The growing role of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in manufacturing extension activity is described.<>