Davids Delivers New Grant for Kansas Manufacturing After Administration Tried to Slash Support
Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced that Kansas will receive a major boost in its manufacturing sector, with the U.S. Department of Commerce awarding Kansas Manufacturing Solutions (KMS) $2.2 million in renewed funding through the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. The new investment follows Davids’ vote to guarantee MEP funding after the Trump Administration attempted to cut it last year.
“Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Kansas’ economy, and strengthening it starts with supporting the workers and small businesses who make it possible,” said Davids. “Kansas Manufacturing Solutions has been a critical partner in helping local manufacturers modernize, expand, and stay competitive while creating good-paying jobs. That’s why I fought for this investment, which ensures KMS can keep helping Kansas manufacturing grow, strengthening our supply chains, and supporting American-made production right here at home.”
“On behalf of Kansas Manufacturing Solutions, we are grateful to Representative Sharice Davids for her continued support and for being a strong ally for Kansas manufacturers in Congress, as well as Senator Jerry Moran for his ongoing support of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership and the manufacturers who drive our state’s economy,” said Tiffany Stovall, CEO, KMS. “This funding ensures we can continue delivering the resources, expertise, and workforce initiatives Kansas manufacturers need to grow, compete, and strengthen our communities.”
Last year, the Trump Administration cut off MEP funding, forcing KMS to lay off nearly half its staff and putting local jobs and economic growth at risk. In response, Davids introduced the Defend American Manufacturing Act, legislation to restore and protect critical funding for MEP programs like KMS. Following Davids’ advocacy and bipartisan pressure from Congress, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) temporarily restored funding to the MEP program.
KMS has made a tremendous impact on the state’s economy, where 86 percent of yearly exports are manufactured goods. In 2024, KMS created or retained 2,339 jobs, spurred $122 million in new investment, saved local businesses $14.3 million, and generated $328 million in sales. In Kansas’ Third District alone, KMS assisted 552 manufacturers and more than 30,000 manufacturing employees in 2024.
For nearly 40 years, the MEP program has helped small and mid-sized manufacturers improve efficiency, strengthen supply chains, and expand into new markets. Through 51 public-private centers operating in every state and Puerto Rico, MEPs provide services such as workforce training, cybersecurity assistance, and market expansion support. In 2024 alone, the program helped create or save more than 108,000 manufacturing jobs nationwide, generated $15 billion in sales, and saved businesses $2.6 billion.
Federal funding for this grant was secured through an FY2026 appropriations package, which Davids voted for earlier this year. The law also incorporates exact language from her Defend American Manufacturing Act, ensuring continued funding for the MEP program in the coming year.