Manufacture New York recently launched The Manufacture Foundation, an education nonprofit to train a 21st-century advanced manufacturing workforce, provide subsidized incubation space and offer classes for startups, engineers, manufacturers and designers.

Workforce training is increasingly important as rapid machine innovation outpaces education of skilled workers. The Manufacture Foundation’s strategies are similar to Pratt’s Equitable Innovation Economies and Toyota’s Advanced Manufacturing Technician Program. Education, training and incubation will build on Manufacture New York’s burgeoning ecosystem as it ramps up to filling out 160,000 square feet of manufacturing space. The plan is to create “a 21st-century garment district” with almost 300 jobs, space for two dozen businesses, plus research and consulting contracts.

Today, Manufacture New York launches the Textiles Futures Initiative, directed by The Crated Founder Maddy Maxey,  for entrepreneurs in e-textiles and wearable tech. This month, The Manufacture Foundation will start offering month-long residencies which you’ll be able to apply for through their site, says Director of Programming and Education Nica Rabinowitz. The Foundation is providing free classes for local schools and communities through collaborations with Red Hook Initiative, Southwest Brooklyn Industrial Development Corporation and Made in NYC. Through a partnership with FIT, MNY will introduce year-round fashion-tech apprenticeships and internships. On Sept 18 and 25, learn how to build interactive accessories and soft circuits.

Learn more about The Manufacture Foundation and Manufacture New York and reach out to Nica here: [email protected].