Review of MEP Underway

The National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) has begun a review of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) that will examine the program's mission and execution. MEP requested the independent analysis.

As part of the study, NAPA will consider whether there are barriers that prevent small firms from obtaining technical and business advice they need to improve innovation, productivity and competitiveness. NAPA will then identify business models for providing services.

The report is scheduled to be completed in February 2004. NIST is asking interested parties to comment on the study by going to http://www.napawash.org/pc_government_performance/ongoing_nist.html