The was down 32.9 percent from December’s $508.57 million and down 4.8 percent when compared with the total of $358.45 million reported for January 2014.

America Makes will provide up to $8 million in funding toward these projects with at least $8 million in matching cost share from the awarded project teams for total funding worth $16 million.

NIST’s MEP program helps small- and mid-size manufacturers create and retain jobs, increase profits and save time and money.

The project enables students to work with ChemArt, a manufacturer of decorative ornaments and custom designed Frank Lloyd Wright themed jewelry in Lincoln, R.I.