Governor Moore Announces Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Grant Recipients
BALTIMORE, MD (February 19, 2025) — Governor Wes Moore today announced the latest recipients of the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 program, an initiative that provides grants to small and mid-sized manufacturers to invest in Industry 4.0 technologies. Administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce, a total of $5 million was awarded to help 43 Maryland businesses modernize their operations. The grantees operate across 17 jurisdictions and support more than 2,400 full-time jobs in Maryland.
“As technology continues to evolve, it is necessary that our state programs and business community do the same,” said Gov. Moore. “Supporting Maryland’s manufacturing industry with programs like Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 will help numerous businesses remain competitive, create new job opportunities, and increase innovation across the Mid Atlantic.”
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 and skill training of employees, and more.
The governor’s proposed budget increases funding for the Manufacturing 4.0 program to $6 million in FY2026.
Projects approved for funding include investing in an innovative tube bending machine for the production of spacecraft components; implementing advanced sensor integration into unmanned aerial vehicle rotary systems; and utilizing a mechanized multi-lens microscope for the evaluation of silicon neural probes.
“This round of Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 grants supports a variety of growing industries—from agribusiness to biomanufacturing to aerospace and defense,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Acting Secretary Harry Coker, Jr. “We’re looking forward to seeing each of these businesses continue expanding their incredible efforts right here in Maryland.”
To learn more about the program, visit commerce.maryland.gov/m4grant.
About Maryland Commerce
The Maryland Department of Commerce stimulates private investment and creates jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing financial assistance to Maryland companies. The Department promotes the State’s many economic advantages and markets local products and services at home and abroad to spur economic development and international investment, trade and tourism. Because they are major economic generators, the Department also supports the arts, film production, sports and other special events. For more information, visit commerce.maryland.gov.
