The Rhode Island plant for Groov-Pin Corp. received a Level 1 Polaris MEP Manufacturing Innovation Challenge award.  Thirty-two Rhode Island manufacturers received awards totaling $700,000.

The Polaris Manufacturing Extension Partnership is a non-profit part of the University of Rhode Island Research Foundation.  Polaris describes the challenge as a “competitive opportunity for Rhode Island manufacturers to access expertise and hands-on design and product-development talent to stimulate business growth, innovation and strategic advancement.”

Polaris said the challenge represents the state’s “most significant investment in Rhode Island’s manufacturing sector” by crediting federal funds through R.I. Commerce Corp.

Level 1 focuses on strategic assessment, giving manufacturers access to up to 75 hours of a team of experts.  Each award at this level is valued at $15,000.  Level 2 focuses on growth implementation.  Based on Level 1 ideas, manufacturers have access to up to $35,000 for business development consulting to “take their company to the next level.”

Founded in 1926 to develop the press-fit fastener known as grooved pins, today Groov-Pin also manufactures threaded inserts and precision turned components.  There are New Jersey and Georgia plants and the Rhode Island facility is located at 331 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917.  Tel: 401 232-3377  Web: Groov-Pin.com