News from the Metals Innovation Ecosystem

[Image: registration reminderV21]

[Image: Mi2 Metals Innovation Search Poster 1]

[Image: MI2 and Vitamin]

[Image: MI2 and Uk Innovate]

The Metals Innovation Initiative (MI2) is excited to be working with a great set of companies and strategic partners in helping support the connections across our innovation ecosystem.

Check out some of what's been going on in the metals ecosystem for the last month:

• MI2 announced our conference registration portal is LIVE! Register now for the inaugural MI2 Annual Conference, on “The Factory of the Future." This is an event you won't want to miss! The deadline to register is August 15th. Check out the site, where you can register, book your hotel room, and learn more about the conference.
• MI2 provided a conference terminology document to break down industry jargon and enhance communication among attendees. This inclusive initiative fosters a more meaningful and collaborative conference experience.
• KY Inno featured MI2’s recently launched Metals Innovation Search! Thanks to Stephen Schmidt and the KY Inno team for recognizing the importance of this initiative and helping MI2 spread the word about driving innovation in the metals industry.
• MI2 announced our partnership with Vitamin Collective! Together, our organizations have embarked on an innovation-driven market analysis, paving the way for the next frontier in Kentucky's metals ecosystem. With their extensive network of innovators, startup enthusiasts, and brilliant minds from all corners of the country, MI2 is confident that our work with Vitamin Collective will further solidify Kentucky's position as a hub of metals innovation.
• UK Innovate at the University of Kentucky hosted MI2 on a webinar, where they discussed the national Metals Innovation Search, as well as the upcoming inaugural annual conference, focused on “The Factory of the Future." We thank the University of Kentucky for their support!
• Southern Coil Solutions, a leading provider of advanced coil handling and storage solutions, will invest more than $27 million into a fully automated steel coil warehouse distribution and logistics center in Bowling Green that will create 30 new full-time jobs.
• Harbor Steel & Supply Corporation opened its new facility in Bowling Green. The metals distributor and manufacturer opened this seventh location at the Kentucky Transpark, with an $8 million investment in a 50,000-square-foot facility that created 25 new jobs.
• Acerinox, a global leader in stainless steel and high-performance alloys, has been recognized with the prestigious "2022 T for Transparent Seal" by the Haz Foundation. Just 13 companies received this award, which evaluates responsible tax reporting across twelve indicators. From cooperating with tax authorities to transparent tax breakdowns, they’re committed to leading the way in transparency. North American Stainless, an MI2 platinum member, is part of the Acerinox Group.