The Utah Manufacturers Association has launched a statewide manufacturing roadshow to deliver business resources directly to local communities, a move intended to help manufacturers scale facilities, secure federal contracts, and optimize supply chains. The initiative, a partnership between the Utah Manufacturers Association, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and 47G, began its series in Cedar City on July 30, 2026.
A New Model for Industry Support
The roadshow series marks a strategic shift for the Utah Manufacturers Association, as it replaces the organization's traditional Manufacturing Conference with these mobile, community-focused events. According to the Utah Manufacturers Association, the goal is to bring manufacturing resources, insights, and connections directly to manufacturers at multiple stops across the state each month.
Johnny Ferry, President and CEO of the Utah Manufacturers Association, stated that the organization is proud to expand its partnership with the SBA and 47G to bring these resources closer to manufacturers throughout Utah. Ferry noted that by moving these resources into the field, the association can more effectively support the industry's diverse needs.
Cedar City Kickoff and Gala Changes
The first stop of the series took place at Southern Utah University in Cedar City on July 30, 2026. The half-day event was designed as an interactive session to provide actionable tools for business growth, including assistance with capital injections and supply chain optimization. The event brought together local manufacturers, industry leaders, lenders, and various business resource partners.
This new initiative coincides with a significant change to the Utah Manufacturers Association's annual programming. The organization announced that its Annual Safety Awards will transition into the Annual Awards Gala, scheduled for November. This move consolidates safety recognition into the association's flagship statewide gathering, allowing manufacturers who prioritize workplace safety to be celebrated alongside the industry's broader achievements.
The Role of 47G
The partnership includes 47G, an organization dedicated to strengthening the aerospace, defense, and hard tech ecosystems in the United States. The company's name is a tribute to both the pioneers who settled Utah's frontier in 1847 and the test pilots of the 1950s, such as Colonel John Stapp, who experienced 46.2Gs of acceleration during a rocket-propelled sled test on December 10, 1954.
47G aims to convene, promote, and advocate for companies within the aerospace and defense sectors. The organization operates with a mission to accelerate growth through specialized services, programs, and networks. As a key partner in the roadshow, 47G helps bridge the gap between industry leadership and the technical needs of high-growth hard tech companies.
Federal Financial Assistance Options
To support the financial needs of these growing businesses, the U.S. Small Business Administration offers several specialized loan programs. The 7(a) loan program serves as the SBA's primary business loan program, providing guarantees to lenders to assist small businesses with special requirements. These loans can be used for acquiring or improving real estate, purchasing machinery, and managing working capital.
For businesses requiring larger, long-term financing for major fixed assets, the SBA provides 504 loans. These loans, which can reach up to $5.5 million, are intended to promote business growth and job creation through the purchase or construction of buildings or the acquisition of long-term machinery. Unlike working capital, 504 loans are specifically designed for major fixed assets and are facilitated through Certified Development Companies (CDCs).
Targeted Manufacturing Loans
The 7(a) program includes a Working Capital Pilot (WCP) specifically designed for growing small businesses in sectors like manufacturing. This program offers monitored lines of credit up to $5 million and is intended to help businesses fulfill large contracts or borrow against inventory. Eligibility for these loans depends on a business's operating history, creditworthiness, and ability to demonstrate a reasonable capacity to repay.
Local Support and Training
Local resources play a critical role in helping manufacturers navigate these complex financial and operational landscapes. The Utah Small Business Development Center (SBDC) operates 11 physical centers across the state, including locations in Cedar City, Price, and Salt Lake City. These centers provide training, tools, and access to consultants to help owners start, grow, or transition their businesses.
In the Price area, the Utah State University Eastern Center for Workforce Development provides specialized services to assist the local economy. This includes the Small Business Development Center, which assists with entrepreneurial education and advocacy, as well as the APEX Accelerator, which helps Utah businesses find and win procurement opportunities with Department of Defense, federal, state, and local entities. Additionally, the Custom Fit program helps businesses assess training needs and can facilitate funding for up to 50% of approved training costs.
A Legacy of Industry Advocacy
The Utah Manufacturers Association has served as the leading voice for the state's manufacturing community since 1905. The organization provides a wide array of services, including workforce development, safety services, and legislative advocacy, supporting members ranging from small shop floor operations to large-scale industrial players at the State Capitol.
