Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a speech in Detroit on Monday, unveiling a $100 million funding initiative aimed at helping small and medium-sized auto manufacturers in enhancing their facilities for the upcoming production of electric vehicles.
Grants Support EV Shift, Aid Greening Suppliers
VP Harris recently visited Charles H. Wright of African American History and joined Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, along with other officials to announce the funding.
CBS News reported that this includes $50 million from the Department of Energy's Automotive Conversion Grants program for small and medium-sized businesses to transition their production from internal combustion engine parts to parts for EVs.
According to a statement from the White House, the funding from the program aims to preserve well-paying union jobs in American communities as automakers and auto suppliers shift towards electric vehicle manufacturing.
An additional $50 million is being allocated through the Industrial Assessments Center Implementation Grants Program to assist suppliers in enhancing their facilities' energy and material efficiency, cybersecurity, productivity, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Small Business Administration Initiative Supports Small Business
Furthermore, Harris unveiled a fresh initiative by the Small Business Administration aimed at helping manufacturers in expanding their business ventures and offering lines of credit to small enterprises, such as auto parts manufacturers.
During Granholm's visit to Michigan in March, she made an exciting announcement about a new workforce program.
This program aims to train battery manufacturers in order to better prepare for the production of electric vehicles (EVs).
Last month, President Biden made an exciting announcement about the establishment of an electric vehicle hub in Michigan.
This hub will play a crucial role in job training, ensuring that the workforce is well-prepared for the growing number of EV jobs.
According to Inc., the initiative involves partnerships with employers, community colleges, and high schools, creating a comprehensive approach to developing the necessary skills for this industry.
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