MI2 launches Metals Innovation Search competition

The Metals Innovation Initiative (MI2), Bowling Green, Kentucky, has announced its inaugural Metals Innovation Search 2023 competition. The organization says it is casting a wide net, calling on entrants from all corners of the U.S. to bring forth innovations that can significantly enhance the metals industry locally and globally.

MI2 says the competition is open to ideas spanning environmental sustainability, end-of-life recycling, advanced manufacturing and workforce development, along with any novel projects that could revolutionize the metals industry. All forms of innovation are welcomed, the organization says, from early-stage ideas to established, revenue-generating enterprises.

Those selected will be invited to present their ideas to a panel at MI2’s debut annual conference, Factory of the Future, Sept. 5 in Louisville, Kentucky. There, the opportunity will be presented to secure investment and launch a pilot project with one of MI2’s member companies.

“The importance of metal technology spans across a multitude of industries,” MI2 CEO Vijay Kamineni says. “Fostering innovation within this sphere is pivotal to addressing future challenges. Our Metal Innovation Search competition serves as a springboard for thinkers, creators and innovators to showcase their unique ideas, fundamentally influencing the progression of the mental technology landscape.”

MI2 says individuals, research institutions, startups and established companies are all encouraged to apply. Applications are open until Aug. 15. For registration details and submission requirements, visit www.mi2.konexons.com.

A nonprofit, MI2 says its vision is to bring all relevant stakeholders together to make the state the global destination for metals innovation. It offers industry-led executive leadership to drive enhanced research, sustainability, commercialization and talent development.