To strengthen small manufacturing
for the defense industry

Project 81

Project 81 is developing a series of advanced manufacturing incubators along US Highway 81 in Oklahoma with the goal to modernize and expand the existing manufacturing base. Through collaboration with key stakeholders, the program provides access to advanced manufacturing technologies, which are often too expensive for small manufacturers. Additionally, Project 81 creates workforce development programs in coordination with the Oklahoma Career Technical System. These incubators enable small manufacturers to diversify away from single industries such as oil & gas and into the Defense Industry and emerging sectors to include EV, aerospace, and UAS.

Awards and Prizes

The Knudsen Institute is excited to announce that Project 81 was selected as a winner of both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the MAKE IT Prize Strategies Track! We’re on our way to bringing clean energy manufacturing to small and medium manufacturers in our community.

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