News from the Metals Innovation Ecosystem

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Governor Andy Beshear Talks Metals, Promoting New KY Metals Industry Guide

We are grateful for Governor Andy Beshear's support from the conception of the Metals Innovation Initiative and especially appreciate his recent highlight of our collaboration with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development on the first-ever Kentucky Metals Industry Guide. Thank you to our state government for championing our shared mission in innovation, workforce development, and economic growth. Together, we're building a sustainable future for Kentucky's metals industry!

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Registration is open for the Kentucky Innovator Challenge 2024

The Kentucky Innovator Challenge will take place Thursday, April 11th, 8:30am-6:30pm ET. This event brings business leaders from Kentucky and the region together for one day to discuss their vision for the future and challenges that are best overcome through collaboration. MI2 is excited to once again be participating in the event, as is MI2 member North American Stainless. Register today: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/v8ughkb

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In case you missed it, MI2 welcomed six new members last month

As we embarked on our second fiscal year, we welcomed 6 new members to our growing organization. These forward-thinking companies are joining forces with us to drive industry-wide innovation. A heartfelt thank you to all our members for their ongoing dedication, time, resources, and funding—your collaboration propels us toward a future of achievements!

https://mi2ky.org/mi2-newest-members/

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MI2 Platinum member Wieland’s latest progress announcement

Wieland released a progress report on their first greenfield recycling and refining center in North America. The project in Shelbyville, Kentucky, has shifted from a construction zone to full-scale operations with the initiation phase of their shredding and sorting equipment. This marks a pivotal moment, and they express their gratitude to everyone involved for contributing to the success of this endeavor.

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Novelis and Ball Corporation’s partnership

MI2 members Novelis and Ball Corporation, also members of the First Movers Coalition, are at the forefront of championing sustainability in response to the projected 40% surge in global aluminum demand by 2030. Their partnership is dedicated to addressing this challenge through innovative approaches centered on decarbonization, closed-loop strategies, and the enhancement of recycling rates. To learn more about their efforts, check out this link.

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MI2’s first Grants and Funding Webinar

Last month, we held our very first Grants and Funding webinar. Thank you to everyone who participated and showed interest. For those who couldn't attend or had to leave early, we have included the presentation slides and a recording of the session below.

Webinar recording: https://bit.ly/MI2GrantsandFunding101Webinar
Presentation: https://bit.ly/MI2GrantsFunding101Presentation

Don't hesitate to reach out to our grants and funding consultant, Ruthie Caldwell, at ruthie@visiongranted.com, if you have any questions or want to discuss grant opportunities.