Walsh University, known state-wide for its expertise in workforce development, is a valued partner in a Case Western Reserve University–led consortium that has been selected as a finalist in the U.S. National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines Program. The Northeast Ohio Strengthening Manufacturing for American Resilience through Technology (NEO-SMART) consortium, led by Case Western Reserve University, is among only 15 finalists nationwide. Each NSF Engine finalist is eligible to receive up to $160 million over 10 years to build regional coalitions that drive innovation, strengthen supply chains, and create jobs.
NSF Engines are designed to ensure that innovation, talent, and technology extend beyond a single city or institution. To meet this goal, Case Western is leveraging Walsh University’s proven track record in workforce development to grow and expand NEO-SMART’s talent pipeline outside of Cuyahoga County. Walsh will serve as a sub-awardee, receiving NSF funding to provide training for unemployed and underemployed individuals, modeled on successful approaches such as the Individual Microcredential Assistance Program (IMAP). This ensures that the benefits of innovation and economic growth reach families and communities across Northeast Ohio while strengthening Ohio’s workforce and competitiveness.
“We have been very intentional over the last several years to build national, regional and local relationships, forge new strategic partnerships, and raise Walsh’s profile within the state,” said Dr. Dan Passerini, Executive Director of Cross Enterprise Operations. “This is just the latest example of the success of that mission and the enormous opportunity that it creates for our campus, our students and the community. Congratulations to my team, in particular, Michael Haag, Director of Entrepreneurship and Technology Transfer, who did much of the heavy lifting in working with our colleagues at CWRU on the details of our participation in this initiative.”
NEO-SMART’s vision is to position Northeast Ohio as a global hub for sustainable manufacturing, with regional specializations in metals, polymers, and chemicals & coatings. The coalition brings together major employers, including Goodyear, Sherwin-Williams, Lincoln Electric, Cleveland-Cliffs, and Bridgestone along with small and midsize manufacturers, local governments, job training organizations, and higher education institutions. Together, the partners aim to create up to 30,000 jobs in an 18-county region over the next decade and reduce industrial CO₂ emissions by more than 20 million tons annually.
Governor Mike DeWine said that by combining public investments, research capacity, and workforce training, Ohio is not just building factories but also building opportunities for residents across the state.
The initiative emphasizes resilient supply chains in critical sectors such as automotive, defense, and medical devices, while embedding artificial intelligence, advanced materials, and smart technologies into modern manufacturing systems. By conducting use-inspired research, accelerating commercialization, and fostering inclusive talent development, NEO-SMART aims to drive equitable economic progress across the region.
The next phase of the NSF Engines competition includes an in-person site visit in early 2026, when NSF staff and external reviewers will evaluate the region’s strategy for innovation, collaboration, and economic impact.
“At Walsh University, it is our mission to prepare individuals to lead lives of purpose,” said Walsh University President Tim Collins. “Innovation and economic growth must create opportunities that strengthen families, neighborhoods, and communities. By equipping individuals with meaningful skills, Walsh helps ensure a resilient workforce, a stronger regional economy, and a thriving Ohio.”
If selected, NEO-SMART would secure up to $160 million in federal support, matched by regional partners, cementing Northeast Ohio—and Ohio as a whole—as a national leader in advanced and sustainable manufacturing innovation.
