Congresswoman Duckworth Applauds $70 Million Grant for Illinois Manufacturing Institute

Press Release

Today, Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth (IL-08) applauded a $70 million grant to UI Labs of Chicago for a Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation (DMDI) Institute. The institute, the first of its kind, will allow manufacturing and software companies to develop interoperable software and hardware for digital manufacturing supply chains, reduce manufacturing costs, and accelerate the development of existing technologies so that Illinois can be the go-to market for new products.

Duckworth, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, worked closely with Illinois's Congressional Delegation to engage the Department of Defense, University of Illinois, Northern Illinois University, Harper College, College of DuPage, Northwestern University and 8th District manufacturers during the application process. Together, they secured this $70 million federal grant and the numerous jobs, innovation, and economic growth it will bring to the region.

"Illinois is one of the most important manufacturing hubs in the world," said Duckworth. "With Chicago hosting the nation's fastest data transport speeds, as well as first-class manufacturing processes and leading American universities, it is fitting that the Department of Defense is making an investment in our region. Together, our businesses, educators, and STEM talent will lead the digital manufacturing revolution. UI Labs will dramatically reduce the time and cost it takes to design, source, and manufacture spare parts for equipment, lower risk and cost for the 8th District's smaller- and medium-sized businesses who wish to compete in the digital manufacturing industry, and create high wage jobs and new business growth."

"I am proud that our region and manufacturers in Illinois' 8th District are leading the way in strengthening American innovation. This establishment of a Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation (DMDI) Institute will continue to strengthen our position as a global leader in manufacturing and cutting-edge technology."

Congresswoman Duckworth is a leader in promoting and strengthening American manufacturing. In May, Duckworth helped introduce the Manufacturing Reinvestment Account Act which would allow manufacturing firms to establish a manufacturing reinvestment account (MRA), similar to an individual retirement account, in a community bank. Duckworth traveled to Thailand to advocate for U.S. businesses and included discussions about the importance of U.S. exports to Southeast Asia. In August, Duckworth held a Forum with the Export-Import Bank of the United States. This was an opportunity for small and medium size businesses to speak with federal and state government officials about how to increase foreign sales, extend credit to buyers and obtain protection against the risk of nonpayment.

8th District manufacturers involved in the project include Northrop Grumman, ACME Finishing Company, L3 Communications, SWD and Now Health Group.

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