Manufacturing application center program

(a) There is established a university-based manufacturing application center program to be administered by the corporation for the purpose of promoting technology deployment by linking Connecticut's higher education system with small and medium-sized businesses. During the three-month period beginning on July 1, 1993, the corporation shall accept applications from eligible institutions in a form and manner prescribed by the corporation for state funding for the operation of a manufacturing application center. (b) On or before January 1, 1994, the corporation shall review all applications timely received pursuant to this section and shall approve one such application. In approving such application the corporation shall assess scientific and economic factors concerning the proposed manufacturing application center, including but not limited to the following: (1) The eligible institution's experience with manufacturing applications, including computer-integrated manufacturing, computer-aided drafting and design, just-in-time manufacturing and total quality management; (2) The center's plan to provide follow-up employee training to center users; (3) The center's plan to involve urban-based businesses, minority students or minority-owned businesses in its activities; and (4) The adequacy of the center's proposed mechanisms for evaluating its progress. (c) The center's responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, providing training for manufacturing businesses in high performance work practices.