PORTLAND – The Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership is receiving $2.1 million from the U.S. Commerce Department to fund programs that aim to make smaller manufacturers more competitive, according to U.S. Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins.

“This funding will enable them to reach out to even more manufacturers in Maine and help these businesses meet the challenges of the 21st century’s global economy,” the Republican senators said in a joint statement.

The partnership provides manufacturers with technical assistance and business advice. More than 2,250 manufacturers in Maine are estimated to be eligible for the services offered by one of its six centers operated in the state.