Manufactured in North Carolina (MNC), an online supply chain database of North Carolina manufacturers that is administered by the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP), is being redesigned thanks to a $250,000 grant from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The grant supports the development of B2B networks, which MNC will cultivate through two phases of improvements to the site.
The first phase, which is now complete, focused on improvements to the site’s design and usability. The more robust technical infrastructure of the site allows for enhanced supplier profiles and improved search experience, with the added ability for users to download supplier information into spreadsheets. Businesses that are enrolled in MNC are now able to post public requests, as well—for example, a clothing designer might post a request for a contract manufacturer to help it produce a new line of shoes.
The second phase of improvements will begin shortly. This phase will introduce new, active network elements, including a chat feature and concierge service. These new features will help manufacturers scout for real-time business opportunities, identify prospective buyers for their products, and further develop and localize their supply chains.
North Carolina manufacturers may be listed in the directory free of charge, and the database is also free for the public to search.
MNC representatives will be on hand at the next mfgNC Connections event to answer questions about the directory and to enroll new members.
