Governor Moore’s $11 Million Boost for ION Storage Systems and Advanced Manufacturing

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ION Storage Systems is leading a significant shift in energy storage with innovative battery technology. Comprised of seasoned industry experts, the company reimagines traditional battery manufacturing, breaking away from the limitations of decades-old Lithium-Ion technology.

By merging two groundbreaking technologies, ION has developed safer, stronger, lighter, and more rugged batteries, overcoming design barriers that have constrained the industry.

Solid-State Batteries: Maryland’s Technological Frontier

In a significant move to boost Maryland’s advanced manufacturing and innovation position, Governor Wes Moore announced an $11 million investment during his visit to ION Storage Systems in Beltsville, MD. This investment is a part of the Moore-Miller Administration’s broader strategy to enhance Maryland’s competitiveness on the national and global stage.

ION Storage Systems, a company that emerged from the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute at the University of Maryland, has been at the forefront of developing solid-state batteries, which are crucial for various industries, including defense, aerospace, and electric vehicles. The company’s cutting-edge technology replaces traditional lithium-ion with ceramic, significantly advancing battery safety and efficiency.

Governor Moore’s visit to ION Storage Systems, which recently launched the first pilot production line capable of producing 100,000 military-grade batteries annually, underscores Maryland’s growing leadership in the high-tech and clean energy sectors. The company’s success is a testament to Maryland’s robust innovation ecosystem and highlights the state’s strategic importance in the nation’s energy transition.

A Strategic Investment in Maryland’s Future

The $11 million in state funding will be allocated to two key programs designed to propel Maryland’s advanced manufacturing capabilities:

  • Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Program: $4 million will bolster this initiative, which supports small and mid-sized manufacturers in adopting Industry 4.0 technologies. These include advanced machinery, robotics, and digital practices essential for competitiveness in the modern industrial landscape. Since its inception in 2023, this program has supported 49 businesses, driving growth through increased productivity and innovation.
  • Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program: The remaining $7 million will be directed towards this program, which funds innovation infrastructure projects in critical sectors such as aerospace, biotechnology, and cybersecurity. Originally a pilot for Fiscal Year 2024, its success has led to continued funding in 2025 to meet high private-sector demand. The program is expected to accelerate growth in these key industries significantly.

Driving Public Investment and Innovation

Governor Moore’s commitment to advancing Maryland’s innovation economy was echoed during the event. “ION Storage Systems is a Maryland original. Their success underscores our state’s growing leadership in science, technology, and advanced manufacturing,” said Governor Moore. “Today, we take another step toward driving public investment in the innovation economy, creating jobs, and spurring growth for years to come. In partnership, we will make Maryland the best place in the world to change the world.”

This sentiment was shared by Congressman Glenn Ivey, who emphasized the importance of federal and state partnerships in driving technological advancements and job creation within the state. “I’m proud to partner with Governor Moore and the great State of Maryland to ensure that ION and other companies like it are creating jobs right here in Prince George’s County,” said Congressman Ivey.

A Bright Future for Maryland’s Manufacturing Sector

The support for ION Storage Systems is a strong signal of Maryland’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the companies that are driving technological progress. With significant federal and state investments, Maryland is positioning itself as a leader in advanced manufacturing and clean energy.

ION Storage Systems CEO Ricky Hanna expressed optimism about the future, stating, “The support from the Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program is a testament to the governor’s dedication to fostering innovation and supporting companies like ours that are driving technological progress. This grant, along with $20 million in federal DOE funding, will accelerate our mission to provide cutting-edge solid-state battery solutions.”

Environment + Energy Leader