Worcester Secures Nearly $3.8 Million for Manufacturing Jobs

News Summary

On April 24, 2025, the city of Worcester announced a significant funding boost to enhance the manufacturing sector in Massachusetts. The Healey-Driscoll administration and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing revealed $3,797,592 in grants aimed at supporting 23 manufacturing companies through the Massachusetts Manufacturing Accelerate Program. This funding is expected to create 125 new jobs and provide upskilling opportunities for nearly 100 employees across various sectors, reinforcing the commitment to strengthen the local economy and workforce development.

Worcester Strikes Gold with Nearly $3.8 Million to Boost Manufacturing Jobs

In an exciting turn of events for the manufacturing sector in Massachusetts, the city of Worcester played host to a groundbreaking announcement that promises to infuse significant funds into the local economy. On April 24, 2025, the Healey-Driscoll administration and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CAM) revealed a whopping $3,797,592 in grants designated to enhance manufacturing capabilities across the state. This funding will support 23 manufacturing companies under the Massachusetts Manufacturing Accelerate Program (MMAP).

What is MMAP?

For those who might not be familiar, MMAP is an innovative initiative designed to empower small- and medium-sized manufacturers to invest in cutting-edge technologies. With rising customer demands, this program provides a much-needed boost, enabling these businesses to enhance their manufacturing capabilities and deliver the goods.

Creating Jobs and Upskilling Employees

What’s particularly exciting is that this latest round of MMAP funding is expected to create an impressive 125 new jobs. Beyond job creation, the program will focus on upskilling nearly 100 employees across various sectors, including semiconductor manufacturing, defense, and photonics. The emphasis on workforce development shows a strong commitment to not just the present, but also the future of manufacturing in Massachusetts.

Voices from the Administration

Ashley Stolba, the interim economic development secretary, underlined the crucial role that supporting manufacturers plays in ensuring the state’s global competitiveness. As the manufacturing sector faces new challenges and opportunities, strengthening this industry is a key focus area.

Additionally, CAM director Lily Fitzgerald reiterated MMAP’s vital role in enhancing local manufacturing and workforce development. With a relentless drive towards creating a collaborative manufacturing ecosystem, CAM continues to pave the way for innovation and business growth.

Investment Since 2022

Since its inception in 2022, MMAP has made a significant impact, investing over $17.7 million in 99 small- to medium-sized manufacturers across Massachusetts. This latest round of funding is a testament to the ongoing commitment to bolster this vital sector of the economy.

Partnering for Success

The awarded companies will not be alone in this venture. They will partner with several nonprofit organizations, such as the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP), Browning the Green Space, WeReach, and FORGE, to access technical and workforce development support. Collaborating with these organizations will provide valuable resources to minimize risks and maximize their growth potential.

Spotlight on Local Businesses

Out of the 23 companies awarded funding, five hail from Western Massachusetts and collectively received $772,134. Some notable grants include:

• Bay State Machine in Easthampton: $179,000 for a five-axis CNC machining center, aiming to upskill 1-3 employees.
• Berkshire Sterile Manufacturing in Lee: $200,000 for a high-capacity vial washer, with plans to upskill 11 employees.
• Cartamundi in East Longmeadow: $193,134.38 towards a high-speed welding machine for card sleeves, expected to upskill 4-6 employees.
• Elegant Stitches Inc. in Pittsfield: $198,930.21 will go towards new embroidery machines and robotics, upskilling another 4-6 employees.
• Lenco Industries Inc.: Received $200,000 to acquire a robotic welding system, enriching the skill set of 7-10 employees.

Looking Ahead

With this infusion of resources, Massachusetts is set to strengthen its manufacturing ecosystem, create new jobs, and elevate workforce skills. The collaboration between companies, nonprofits, and state programs holds the promise of a bright future for local manufacturing. As these businesses gear up to meet the demands of the changing marketplace, they also contribute to the growth and innovation that keep Massachusetts competitive on the global stage.

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