Contact Micki Vandeloo: micki@lakeviewconsulting.net

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Micki Vandeloo and I discussed the challenges manufacturers face in accessing grants, specifically regarding limited representation from state economic development organizations and the difficulty in finding comprehensive grant information on their websites. These challenges are compounded by the complex application process, which varies in complexity based on the size of the grant.

Micki Vandeloo is President of Lakesview Consulting, and she shared invaluable expertise in helping manufacturers secure grants, drawing from his 25 years of experience in manufacturing and grant writing. Through Lakesview, Micki and her team have successfully obtained over $100,000,000 in grant funding for manufacturing clients, shedding light on the crucial role of consulting services in navigating the intricacies of grant applications.

The podcast also highlighted the significance of grants in various areas such as workforce and training, high technology equipment purchases, facilities and capital, energy efficiency, proof of concept, exporting, and recycling. The discussion shed light on the importance of fostering interest in manufacturing careers early on, as exemplified by initiatives like the STEM Goes Red for Girls program and summer camp programs introducing students to manufacturing careers.

Lessons Learned:

1. Grant Application Complexity: The grant size corresponds to the level of detail and documentation required. Manufacturers must pay careful attention to specific application requirements, such as word count, font size, and inclusion of relevant information, to avoid rejection.

2. Importance of Consulting Services: Professional grant consulting services, like those offered by Lakesview, play a vital role in helping manufacturers navigate the grant application process, increasing their chances of securing funding.

3. Early Career Exploration: Initiatives focusing on engaging students in manufacturing and STEM fields from a young age can significantly influence career paths and address the talent gap in these industries.

Key Themes:

- Manufacturers' Challenges: Accessing grants can be challenging due to limited representation from economic development organizations and the complexity of the application process.

- Professional Assistance: Grant consulting services are crucial for manufacturers to successfully obtain grants, allowing them to fund initiatives and drive success.

- Early Engagement: Initiatives targeting middle and high school students aim to spark interest in manufacturing and STEM fields, tackling the talent gap at its roots.

This episode underscores the significance of grant funding for manufacturing and STEM education, providing valuable insights for manufacturers and industry professionals seeking to secure grants and develop talent pipelines. For more information and to access consulting services, visit their website or reach out via email at micki@lakeviewconsulting.net