MoveAmerica Joins Manufacturing USA and LIFT for Advanced Materials Innovation Event in Detroit

MoveAmerica participated in the "Accelerating Material Innovation for Competitive Advantage & Expanding the Defense Industrial Base" event, hosted by Manufacturing USA and LIFT in Detroit, Michigan. The gathering brought together defense contractors, advanced manufacturers, and program leaders to discuss how cutting-edge materials and strategic partnerships can strengthen the nation's industrial capabilities.

The event featured panel discussions on advanced materials innovation and the Department of Defense Mentor-Protégé Program, with insights from Beth Cryderman Moss of LIFT and Jutta Bangs of the University of Tennessee APEX Accelerator at UT CIS. Speakers highlighted how emerging technologies and collaborative partnerships are creating new pathways for businesses to enter and expand within the defense supply chain.

MoveAmerica representatives connected with current mentors, protégés, and potential new program participants throughout the event. Among the companies in attendance were Elementum 3D and Vulcan Elements, both working at the forefront of advanced materials development. These conversations provided valuable opportunities to learn about innovative capabilities and explore how MoveAmerica can help connect companies with defense contracting opportunities.

Manufacturing USA's network of institutes, including LIFT (Lightweight Innovations for Tomorrow), plays a critical role in accelerating the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies across the defense sector. By participating in these convenings, MoveAmerica continues to build relationships with key stakeholders and identify opportunities to connect small and mid-sized businesses with mentors, contracts, and resources.