An advanced manufacturing workforce development initiative in southwest Virginia could receive $24.8 million in federal funding to expand technical training and help regional manufacturers develop new products.
The U.S. Economic Development Administration announced October 26, 2026, that it intends to provide the funding to the Additive Manufacturing and Advanced Materials coalition, also known as AM2.
The proposed investment will support manufacturing certification programs and equipment intended to improve industrial production processes.
Federal officials say the initiative is expected to train approximately 2,000 workers.
New Manufacturing Certification Program Planned
One component of the initiative involves establishing an advanced manufacturing certification program.
Certification programs can help workers demonstrate knowledge and technical skills associated with specialized manufacturing occupations.
The planned training is intended to address workforce needs in industries using advanced materials and manufacturing technologies.
The announcement does not identify the individual certifications that will be offered.
Specific training providers, enrollment requirements, course schedules, and tuition arrangements have also not been published.
Prospective participants should wait for additional program information before assuming they qualify for training.
The 2,000-worker figure represents a project goal rather than the number of people already enrolled or trained.
Equipment Will Support Manufacturing Innovation
The project also includes acquiring equipment designed to help manufacturers improve production processes.
According to the federal announcement, the initiative will provide testing and development capabilities that allow manufacturers to design, prototype, and prepare new products for commercial production.
Prototyping allows businesses to evaluate product designs before committing to larger manufacturing runs.
Testing equipment can also help manufacturers identify production problems and improve product consistency.
These resources may be especially useful for smaller manufacturers that cannot independently justify the cost of specialized testing equipment.
However, the announcement does not establish whether equipment will be available to all regional businesses.
Access arrangements and participation requirements have not yet been released.
Nearly $195 Million in Total Commitments
Federal officials described the proposed $24.8 million award as part of a broader initiative supported by approximately $195 million in total commitments.
The combined commitments are intended to support workforce development and advanced manufacturing capabilities across southern and southwest Virginia.
The federal announcement does not provide a complete breakdown of participating organizations or individual financial commitments.
It also does not specify when all proposed investments will occur.
The figures should therefore be understood as announced commitments rather than completed expenditures.
Economic Recovery After Hurricane Helene
The initiative is being considered through the EDA’s disaster recovery funding program.
The proposed investment responds to the effects of Hurricane Helene, which affected parts of Virginia in 2024.
The program is designed to help disaster-impacted communities rebuild economic capacity while developing industries that can support future employment.
In this case, the proposed strategy emphasizes manufacturing technology and workforce skills.
Opportunities for Businesses and Workers
Manufacturers in southwest Virginia may eventually have opportunities to participate in technical training, product development, or testing activities.
Workers interested in manufacturing careers may also benefit from new certification programs.
However, the October 26 announcement does not establish an open enrollment period, identify participating employers, or guarantee employment following training.
The next milestones will include final award decisions, confirmation of project partners, equipment procurement, and publication of training schedules.
For southwest Virginia, the proposed investment represents a significant effort to expand technical manufacturing capabilities while supporting regional economic recovery.