YOUNGSTOWN — The National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM), which already oversees America Makes here, announced Thursday a new affiliate company for Youngstown to further advance manufacturing tech and bolster the industry in northeast Ohio.

The Advanced Manufacturing and Applied Research Innovation Institute (AMARII) is a limited liability company that can connect regional manufacturers with project ideas with its network of potential funding sources, including the U.S. Departments of Defense and Energy, the Office of Economic Adjustment, and regional, state and local agencies.

The executive team of AMARII will be comprised of leadership from NCDMM and the Manufacturing Technology Deployment Group Inc., the nonprofit holding company for NCDMM, with oversight from an executive board that will have members from the Youngstown Business Incubator, the Western Reserve Port Authority and the Eastgate Regional Council of Governments.

“AMARII is going to build upon the northeast Ohio region’s rich tradition of manufacturing expertise and ongoing economic revitalization efforts,” said Randy Gilmore, NCDMM vice president and chief development officer.

“By working with the region’s manufacturers to catalyze project ideas, match them with funding opportunities and develop innovative technologies and a skilled workforce, AMARII will help the northeast Ohio region realize its potential of becoming the national hub for advanced manufacturing,” he said.

AMARII also announced it is soliciting an open call on project ideas that address manufacturing, machining, process improvement, automation, supply chain enhancement, energy and energy efficiency, technology enhancement and cost reduction.

Submitted project ideas that support AMARII’s mission and demonstrate the ability to advance manufacturing technologies, promote job growth and retention, and strengthen economic competitiveness will receive priority consideration.

To submit a project idea, fill out the AMARII Technology Advancement Topic Submission Form found on the AMARII website, https://amarii.us/, by midnight Oct. 30.