January 2025

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2025: Navigating a new era in manufacturing

As we embrace 2025, the manufacturing industry is undergoing rapid and transformative changes. Insights from the Deloitte 2025 Manufacturing Industry Outlook highlight several pressing challenges facing manufacturers:

• Talent shortages: A staggering 60% of manufacturers identified the difficulty in attracting and retaining skilled talent as a top challenge in 2024.

• Data issues impacting AI: Nearly 70% of manufacturers reported that challenges with data quality, contextualization, and validation are significant barriers to successful AI implementation.

• Rising logistics costs: Over 35% of manufacturers cited transportation and logistics expenses as a primary business hurdle during the third quarter of 2024.

At M3 Chicago, we are committed to helping you navigate these challenges by providing access to cutting-edge resources, events, and insights. Want to see how M3 Chicago is driving innovation and creating programs to empower your business? Click here to learn more.

Advance your labor force, elevate your business.

Looking to improve your talent pipeline and remain competitive? The Cook County Manufacturing Apprenticeship Accelerator, in partnership with Skills for Chicagoland's Future, connects your business with skilled new hires while also providing opportunities for career advancement in manufacturing.

With the Cook County Manufacturing Apprenticeship Accelerator, manufacturers can seize the opportunity to grow their business by upskilling workers, incentivizing them through earn-and-learn programs. Ready to build a stronger workforce? Learn more here.

Clean energy technology funding opportunity

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has opened new funding to small businesses for innovative clean energy technologies as part of its Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs. SBIR and STTR are competitive funding opportunities that encourage U.S.-based small businesses to engage in research and development to accelerate the commercialization of innovative technologies. 

SBIR/STTR provides funding in two phases:

• Phase I: Up to $200,000 to assess the feasibility of clean energy concepts through early-stage research.

• Phase II: Up to $1 million for advancing successful Phase I projects, including prototyping, testing, and validation.

Mandatory letters

of intent due by Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025 11:59 PM ET.

Interested in unlocking new growth opportunities and leveraging government contracting?

Manufacturers are invited to join this invaluable business opportunity providing contracting opportunities and details from:

• Federal agencies: U.S. Department of Defense (all branches), Department of Energy, NASA, Veterans Affairs, FAA, and more.

• Prime contractors: Accenture, Caterpillar, Deloitte, General Dynamics, Walsh Federal, Raytheon, along with others

• State & local entities: State of Illinois, Cook County, City of Chicago, and additional municipalities.

• Small business financing: Access SBA programs, private financing, and defense venture capital initiatives.

• Innovation hubs: DEFENSEWERX, Fast Center at UIUC, Innovation DuPage, and ARI.

Demystify CMMC! Join as TOTEM describes the challenges small business owners may encounter while implementing CMMC requirements and pursing certification, in addition to smart strategies you can implement to more easily navigate the cybersecurity compliance landscape.

Prepare for 2025 with TMA! Join as U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood (IL-16) and TMA News Editor Fran Eaton preview the 2025 session of Congress and how it will work with President-elect Trump to bolster American manufacturing. Topics covered will include tariffs and China's influence on Illinois manufacturing. 

Join to explore the world of government contracts and discover exciting opportunities for your business. Learn how to navigate the process of sourcing and bidding for government projects.

Calling all veterans, service members, and their families! Join the Southland Development Authority (SDA) for this networking event designed to help veterans thrive. Learn about available positions at top companies, explore resources and support efforts for veterans and their families, and network with professionals who share your goals.

mHUB's Industry Disruptors conversation series kickoffs in 2025 with Matt Hulsizer and Jenny Just, co-founders of PEAK6 Investments. With a wealth of experience in identifying opportunities and mentoring innovators, their insights will inspire and empower entrepreneurs to overcome business challenges. Don’t miss this chance to learn from two industry pioneers shaping the future of hardtech and product development.