Small auto-parts manufacturers in Northville and Novi with fewer than 10 employees can get free technical, financial and legal help through a state program that expanded statewide Sept. 22.

The Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program, known as MAST-P, targets shops tied to the internal combustion engine (ICE) supply chain. Oakland and Wayne counties, where Northville and Novi sit, were among the original six counties eligible when the program launched April 27.

On Tuesday, Sept. 22, the program expanded to cover all 83 Michigan counties, Automation Alley announced. The expansion lets Northville and Novi shops access no-cost technical, accounting, legal and investor-connection help as they prepare to enter industries such as aerospace, defense, electric vehicles and advanced energy.

MAST-P is backed by more than $9 million in federal funding through the State Small Business Credit Initiative Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SSBCI SBOP). The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) administers the program on behalf of the Michigan Strategic Fund. Automation Alley, a Michigan-based nonprofit technology business association, leads outreach alongside the Michigan Manufacturers Association.

Tom Kelly, Automation Alley's executive director and CEO, said in a June 18 press release promoting a MAST-P webinar series that the program addresses a shifting landscape. "Michigan's manufacturing economy continues to evolve as companies navigate supply chain shifts, global competition and emerging opportunities," Kelly said.

The three-year initiative aims to support more than 500 suppliers statewide. Partners include the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council and the University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute.

To qualify, a business must be connected to the ICE supply chain, employ fewer than 10 people and hold a manufacturing NAICS code in the 31-33 range. The program also targets businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.

Manufacturers can learn more and apply at automationalley.com/mast-p.