BEAM Collaborative and U3 Advisors Chosen as Data Specialists for InnovatePGH TMACE Program

Following a Request For Proposals process, InnovatePGH proudly announces the selection of the BEAM Collaborative and U3 Advisors as Data Specialists for the transformative Training and Market Access for Entrepreneurs (TMACE) program. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in our commitment to helping local small businesses gain access to procurement opportunities within the burgeoning robotics and advanced manufacturing sectors of Southwestern Pennsylvania. 

Funded through the Build Back Better Regional Challenge Southwestern Pennsylvania New Economy Collaborative, TMACE drives economic growth in the region by connecting historically disadvantaged small businesses with contracting opportunities in the robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing industries. InnovatePGH partners with Riverside Center for Innovation and the University of Pittsburgh Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence Pantherlab Works to identify small businesses in the region who offer goods and services needed by these sectors, assess their business operations, and provide any technical assistance needed to prepare them for contracting opportunities. Through the TMACE Vendor Directory and targeted matchmaking events, the TMACE team shares information about these businesses and their offerings with robotics and advanced manufacturing companies in Pittsburgh. 

InnovatePGH is bringing on BEAM Collaborative and U3 Advisors to serve as the program’s Data Specialist, delving into the procurement data of companies in the robotics and advanced manufacturing industries to unlock valuable insights and identify additional avenues for engagement with diverse vendors. One of the key challenges for small businesses seeking to enter new markets is understanding the intricate dynamics of procurement processes and identifying potential entry points. By serving as Data Specialists, BEAM Collaborative and U3 Advisors will play a pivotal role in bridging this gap. They will work closely with companies to benchmark and analyze their procurement data, shedding light on existing patterns, opportunities, and areas for improvement. Data-driven insights will serve as the foundation for companies’ strategic decision-making, enabling companies to optimize their procurement practices and create pathways for local small businesses to participate in their supply chains.  

At the heart of our decision to select BEAM Collaborative and U3 Advisors to participate in this work lies the recognition of the unparalleled expertise and dedication to supplier diversification exhibited by these two organizations. With a proven track record in data analytics, economic development, and strategic consulting, these organizations bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Their collaborative approach and innovative solutions align seamlessly with the goals of the TMACE program, making them the ideal candidates to spearhead our data-driven initiatives. 

By harnessing the power of data and strategic analysis, this initiative holds the promise of unlocking new pathways for local businesses to thrive in the dynamic landscape of robotics and advanced manufacturing. As the program unfolds, its impact is poised to extend far beyond individual enterprises, shaping a more vibrant and resilient economy for the entire region. 

To learn more about TMACE, please contact Erin Jensen at EJ@InnovatePGH.com or visit InnovatePGH.com/TMACE. 

Mike Madden