To strengthen small manufacturing for the defense industry

Project 81 Named Phase 2 Winner of MAKE IT Prize!

The Knudsen Institute is excited to announce that Project 81 was selected as a winner of Phase 2 of the MAKE IT Prize Strategies Track! We’re on our way to bringing clean energy manufacturing to small and medium manufacturers in our community.

The Knudsen Institute

Applied Research
on Surge Theory

The Knudsen Institute seeks to enhance the surge capacity of the U.S. defense industrial base. We do this by identifying and integrating small- and medium-sized manufacturers via emerging technology, workforce, and policy solutions.  We realize that technology and policy must be developed in an interdisciplinary nature to establish a truly integrated and resilient domestic manufacturing industrial base capable of meeting surge requirements. We do this through: 

Applied Research

Workforce Development

Public Policy

What is Surge Theory?

Surge Theory studies how to rapidly scale resources during a crisis, with an emphasis on preparedness.  In the defense context, surge capacity can – and usually does – spell the difference between victory and disaster.

Active Research Projects

Check out our current work
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The Data Mine

At Purdue University, The Knudsen Institute is sponsoring two projects in the upcoming 2023-2024 semesters.

Autonomous Data Engine

The development of an autonomous data engine that is continuously collecting data from a variety of sources.

Project 81

Project 81 is developing innovative ways to support workforce development for small manufacturers. 

Make a Difference!

Get Involved

The Knudsen Institute brings together a robust team of subject matter experts. From the Defense Industrial Base to AI to Logistics to Supply Chain to Economic Development to Advanced Manufacturing, we have leaders from around the country committed and actively engaged.

Project

Collaborate with us to drive solutions for the defense industrial base.

Donate

Contribute to our work to strengthen America’s defense industrial base

Partnership

Join forces with us to shape the future of defense readiness and surge capacity.

Sponsorship

Support our work on surge theory through strategic sponsorship opportunities.