Looking for ways to introduce students to manufacturing careers, strengthen community partnerships or enhance your Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) efforts? The PMA Educational Foundation’s (PMAEF) Metalforming Micro-Grant Program can help turn your ideas into reality.
PMAEF has allocated $15,000 for the 2026 Metalforming Micro-Grant Program, providing PMA member companies with grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 to support projects that increase awareness and exposure to manufacturing and metalforming careers in collaboration with MFG Day initiatives.
But what exactly can you use the grant money for? Below are some ideas for you.
1. Inspire the Next Generation
One of the primary goals of the Micro-Grant Program is to expose K-12 students to the exciting opportunities available in manufacturing. Grant funding can help support:
- Manufacturing Day facility tours
- Student field trips to manufacturing facilities
- Hands-on demonstrations and activities
- Career exploration events
- STEM and engineering workshops
- Manufacturing camps and educational program
By giving students firsthand exposure to modern manufacturing, companies can help spark interest in careers they may not have otherwise considered.
2. Build Stronger School Partnerships
Micro-grant funding can also support partnerships with local schools, career centers and community organizations. Whether you’re collaborating on a classroom presentation, hosting educators at your facility or participating in a community event, the grant can help cover materials and resources needed to make your outreach efforts successful.
3. Create Innovative Programs
Have a creative idea for promoting manufacturing careers? PMAEF encourages innovation.
Projects that demonstrate new ways to engage students, parents, educators and community members are strongly encouraged. Whether it’s an interactive manufacturing showcase, a robotics competition, a skilled trades workshop or a unique MFG Day experience, the Micro-Grant Program is designed to support fresh ideas that can serve as examples for others in the industry.
4. Connect with Postsecondary and Trade Schools
Building a future workforce starts long before graduation. Grant funds can be used to strengthen relationships with technical schools, community colleges and other post-secondary institutions. Companies can create programs that introduce students to manufacturing career pathways, apprenticeships and employment opportunities within the metalforming industry.
5. Partner with Your Community
Some of the most impactful programs happen when organizations work together. PMAEF welcomes projects that involve partnerships with other manufacturers, workforce development organizations, community agencies and nonprofit groups. These collaborations can help expand your reach and create lasting connections between manufacturing and the communities you serve.
6. Make Your Manufacturing Day Event Even Better
Manufacturing Day remains one of the most effective ways to showcase the industry to future talent. Past grant recipients have used funding to:
- Host facility tours for students, educators and community leaders
- Purchase materials for hands-on activities and demonstrations
- Cover transportation costs for school visits
- Promote skilled trades careers and apprenticeship opportunities
- Offer workshops focused on robotics, engineering and machining
- Build partnerships with local schools and workforce organizations
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. The most successful projects are those that create meaningful experiences and increase awareness of manufacturing careers.
Apply by August 31
The 2026 PMAEF Metalforming Micro-Grant Program is now accepting applications through August 31, 2026.
Help inspire the next generation of manufacturing professionals and bring your Manufacturing Day event to life with a PMAEF Micro-Grant!