The Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) and the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) announced Wednesday the launch of a supply chain center they hope will revolutionize the state’s manufacturing industry.
The Illinois Manufacturing Supply Chain Center will provide midsized manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers with support to strengthen their supply chains. Focusing on promoting local sourcing and diversity, the center is designed to boost the state’s manufacturing sector further, officials said.
“We are thrilled to unveil our new supply chain solution, which we firmly believe will revolutionize the manufacturing industry in Illinois,” David Boulay, president of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center, said. “Through local sourcing and diversity initiatives, our solution empowers small manufacturers to access larger supply chains, fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities for local businesses. We are confident that this solution will contribute significantly to Illinois’ economic development, creating jobs and boosting the state’s prosperity.”
Funded by the by the CHIPS and Science Act, the center will offer a wide range of services to address manufacturers’ needs, the center will include features to allow manufacturers to adhere to Buy America policies, providing businesses with access to experts to help locate suppliers in Illinois as well as nationwide. The organizations said that by facilitating responsible and sustainable sourcing, the center will support the development of onshoring supply chains and help manufacturers foster local connections.
The IMEC and IMA said they recognize the importance of empowering small manufacturers so they can compete in the market. The center will feature specialized services for small manufacturers to bolster their ability to engage in supply chains. With designated spaces for suppliers and buyer, manufacturers can connect with domestic suppliers seamlessly, or use the space to take on new business opportunities. The center’s services also support ways to improve product quality, delivery times and pricing, which, official said, allows small manufacturers to expand their customer base.
“Recent global disruptions have reinforced the importance of building a strong American manufacturing sector and resilient supply chains to ensure people get the products they need in a timely and efficient manner,” Mark Denzler, president and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA), said. “With more than 500,000 Illinoisans working in manufacturing, this new supply chain center will help revolutionize our industry, ensuring job growth and economic prosperity for decades to come.”