Governor Wes Moore announced that 43 Maryland businesses received a total of $5 million in grants through the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 program to invest in Industry 4.0 technologies and modernize operations. The initiative, administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce, supports businesses across 17 jurisdictions and is set to receive increased funding in the governor’s proposed budget for FY2026.
“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.”