Precision Rapid Innovation & Scaling Manufacturing (PRISM) Program
BACKGROUND
NextFlex has partnered with the University of Texas Microelectronics Precision Rapid Innovation & Scaling Manufacturing (PRISM) Network. The PRISM Network has been designated a U.S. Department of Defense Manufacturing Community within the state of Texas and aims to accelerate critical defense microelectronics needs through:
- Advanced research and commercialization
- Small business assistance
- Business incubation / acceleration
- Supply Chain Development
NextFlex has received a grant from the U.S. Department of Defense Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation to support Texas’ defense innovation and advanced manufacturing ecosystem through small business development. Funding comes from the DoD Defense Manufacturing Community Support Program (DMCSP) that is designed to strengthen the national security innovation base.
NextFlex was selected to receive the grant due to its expertise in hybrid electronics, which are revolutionizing electronics by making them thin, low-cost, lightweight, bendable, stretchable, and able to conform to almost any shape. With the grant funds, we will support microelectronics businesses within the Texas defense industrial base by providing access to leading edge hybrid electronics design, prototyping, and low-volume additive manufacturing services through its Technology Hub.
NextFlex is authorized to recruit and vet projects related to FHE, additive electronics manufacturing and advanced packaging for small companies that need help with design, prototyping, low volume manufacturing and testing/characterization of defense-oriented devices and systems. Each project supported will align to DoD’s Technology Modernization Priorities, identified DoD system requirements, and NextFlex capabilities and focus in the areas of microelectronics, advanced packaging, and interconnect.
Qualified small businesses can apply for assistance:
- Mentor/assist qualified small- and medium-sized manufacturers, to include providing engineering and design services.
- Support small business recipients in prototyping & developing proof of concept demonstrations for DoD projects.
- De-risk Technology/Capital Equipment Adoption by enabling the evaluation of tool capabilities that exist at the NextFlex technology hub for their applications prior to investing in new CAPEX.
- Manufacturing support from early prototype through low-volume manufacturing (if appropriate).
- Assistance with Transitioning/scaling of production to a U.S. volume manufacturer.
To learn more about the program and the application process, you can watch this informational webinar.
For any questions or comments, email Nick Morris from NextFlex.