(a) Financial assistance authorized
The Secretary may provide financial assistance on a competitive basis to States for the establishment of programs to be used as models for supporting the implementation of smart manufacturing technologies.
(b) Applications
(c) Requirements
(d) Use of fundsA State may use financial assistance provided under this section—
(1)
to facilitate access to high-performance computing resources for small and medium manufacturers; and
(2)
to provide assistance to small and medium manufacturers to implement smart manufacturing technologies and practices.
(e) EvaluationThe Secretary shall conduct semiannual evaluations of each award of financial assistance under this section—
(f) Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $50,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2022 through 2026.