The Delaware Manufacturing Extension Partnership (DEMEP) is one of the state’s “hidden” treasures. The 501(c)3 non-profit was created by Delaware manufacturers and the Delaware Economic Development Office (now Delaware Division of Small Business) in 1993 to help Delaware manufacturers stay competitive in a global economy.
DEMEP is the official representative of the MEP National Network™ in Delaware. The MEP National Network is comprised of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP) and 51 MEP Centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Some Centers are run through partner organizations, while others are independent. DEMEP functions on behalf of Delaware Technical Community College, and is based at the College’s Stanton Campus.
So what does this all mean to the small- and medium-sized manufacturers in the State of Delaware? It means that they can look to DEMEP as a trusted business advisor that can help companies create (Lean) continuous improvement cultures, implement quality management systems, access new technologies and grow new markets. As part of the MEP National Network, DEMEP agents have access to the experience and knowledge of more than 1,300 fellow experts across the country and local resource partners to help companies find new ways to accomplish their goals.