IMEC Launches Move Ahead Faster Initiative to Advance Illinois Manufacturing Competitiveness The Move Ahead Faster Projects will equip small & medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) to accelerate growth and productivity. News provided by Share this article PEORIA, Ill., Feb. 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, IMEC, the Illinois affiliate of the U.S Commerce NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network, launched the Move Ahead Faster Projects for Illinois small and mid-sized manufacturers. This initiative provides the necessary assessments and technical assistance to improve key drivers of their organizational success. Presented with fully funded projects to address their most critical needs, eligible Illinois manufacturers can receive support led by industry experts to help them plan, implement and excel. Projects vary in focus and were developed based on insights and immediate needs reported from over 1,200 manufacturers. These projects are fully funded through the CARES Act Recovery Assistance Funds.