SMART-PA

Empowering Pennsylvania Manufacturers with Technology and Training

Making Growth Simple for Small and Mid-Sized Manufacturers

As a small or mid-sized manufacturer, you already know how tough today’s market can be. That’s why we’re excited to introduce SMART-PA—a program designed to help manufacturers learn about and make smart technology investments to increase efficiencies and reduce the costs of running your business.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, SMART-PA is a statewide effort designed specifically for Pennsylvania manufacturers to introduce them to low-cost technology-based solutions with assistance from their Industrial Resource Center.

Technology Tailored for Manufacturers Like You

IoT (Internet of Things) and AI are transforming how small and mid-sized manufacturers operate, offering accessible tools to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and drive smarter decision-making.

AI-Driven Insights and Optimization

Pair IoT with AI to uncover actionable insights from your operations. AI tools analyze your data to detect patterns, optimize processes, and support smarter decision-making. These solutions are designed to be straightforward and accessible, helping you adapt quickly to changing demands.

Process Automation

Streamline your workflows with tools that fit your needs. From automating repetitive tasks to optimizing energy usage, IoT simplifies daily operations and improves efficiency without requiring significant changes to your existing processes.

Preventive Maintenance

IoT sensors monitor equipment in real-time, helping manufacturers of all sizes predict and prevent issues before they cause downtime. With practical and scalable solutions, IoT makes it easier to reduce costs and keep operations running smoothly.

The Growth Cycle of Innovation

IoT and AI don’t just make your operations more efficient—they drive growth. By improving productivity and reducing waste, you can invest in additional tools like marketing automation and lead generation, creating a cycle of innovation and expansion that supports long-term success.

Start Growing Smarter Today
Automate Market Diversification

Automate market diversification

Smart Marketing Automation

Engage prospects with tailored, automated campaigns that run 24/7. Build relationships, keep your pipeline full, and convert prospects into customers without the added workload.

Free Workshops

Build the skills to stay competitive with free workshops designed for manufacturers. Learn how to leverage AI and advanced tools to improve operations, boost productivity, and drive growth. Offered at The Digital Foundry and hosted by DVIRC, these workshops empower your team to embrace smarter strategies for success.

Built for Pennsylvania Manufacturers

The SMART-PA program is here to help manufacturers across the state embrace the potential of IoT, AI, and smart technologies to improve efficiency, growth competitively, and focus on what they do best. With the support of state and regional leaders, this program ensures innovative solutions are accessible to businesses of every size.

Benefits

Save Time

Spend less time searching for solutions or leads—our IoT, AI, and marketing automation tools handle the hard work, freeing you to focus on growing your business.

Grow with Confidence

Gain access to free workshops, expert training, and funding opportunities that empower your team to embrace advanced technologies and achieve new levels of success.

Work Smarter

Adopt IoT, robotics, and automation to streamline processes, improve safety, and enhance operational efficiency. AI solutions take on repetitive tasks and enable smarter decision-making.

Find the Right Customers

Use targeted lead generation and smart marketing automation to connect with prospects that are the best fit for your business. Access up to 6 qualified leads each month, all tracked in a personalized dashboard.

Stay Ahead

Use cutting-edge technologies like IoT, robotics, and AI to stay competitive and prepare your business for the future of manufacturing.

FAQ
SMART-PA is a statewide program designed to help Pennsylvania’s small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs, with 500 or fewer employees) adopt advanced technologies and improve their competitiveness.
SMART-PA is led by the Statewide Department of Energy in collaboration with the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, Penn State, and the PA Industrial Resource Centers.
SMART-PA is available to Pennsylvania manufacturers with 500 or fewer employees, with a focus on priority sectors, including companies in Justice40 communities, women- and minority-owned businesses, and union-supported manufacturers.
The incorporation of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, and big data into business and production processes enhances efficiency, flexibility, and quality. By connecting systems, machines, and people across your manufacturing enterprise, it enables real-time decision-making, process optimization, and greater operational control.
Many services, such as training and assessments, are free. Cost-sharing opportunities for implementation projects are available through mini-grants.
Reach out to DVIRC or take the digital assessment to explore how SMART-PA can help your business grow.

Are you a manufacturer with fewer than 500 employees? Take the first step with a quick assessment and discover how these tools and services can transform your business.