The Manufacturing Extension Partnership of Illinois' mission is to continually improve the competitiveness of small and mid-sized Illinois manufacturers. The centers and affiliated support organizations help manufacturers with productivity, technology modernization, and enhanced business practices. The MEPI is a program of the Department Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and is part of a broader economic development program of assistance for small businesses administered by DCEO. It is also affiliated with a national network of manufacturing extension centers. Manufacturing Extension Centers offer the following services:
Assessment - an on-site team provides an objective analysis, identifying your company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. We suggest steps you can take immediately to improve performance.
Benchmarking - an inexpensive way to compare your performance to that of similar businesses. We deliver a customized report showing where you stand on more than 50 performance indicators.
Projects - based on your needs and priorities, projects are clearly defined up-front. A project manager qualifies the service providers and manages the project hands-on to ensure your satisfaction. Projects can address various manufacturing needs including, but not limited to manufacturing modernization, quality assurance, best manufacturing practices, product development, and market development.