This bill, known as the National Fab Lab Network Act of 2026, establishes a new nonprofit corporation called the National Fab Lab Network. This organization is designed to create a national network of local digital fabrication facilities, or "fab labs," which are equipped with advanced manufacturing tools like computer-controlled machines for additive and subtractive processes, electronics manufacturing, and 3D design capabilities. The primary goal is to provide universal access to these tools, fostering education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact across communities. The Network's key activities include establishing a minimum of one fab lab in each congressional district, with a priority on underserved communities, and linking these labs into a cohesive national system. It aims to promote STEM skills , increase invention, create businesses and jobs, and align workforce development with emerging industries. The corporation will also serve as a resource for operating fab labs, maintaining a national registry, and setting standards and protocols for their connection. The governing body of the National Fab Lab Network will be a board of 7 to 15 members, appointed by congressional leaders, representing diverse geographic regions, Tribal communities, educational institutions, and other stakeholders. The corporation is empowered to accept and distribute funds, issue guidelines for sustainable operation, and facilitate communication among its members, while being restricted from issuing stock or distributing income for personal benefit. It will also submit annual reports to Congress on its activities.
This bill, known as the National Fab Lab Network Act of 2026, establishes a new nonprofit corporation called the National Fab Lab Network. This organization is designed to create a national network of local digital fabrication facilities, or "fab labs," which are equipped with advanced manufacturing tools like computer-controlled machines for additive and subtractive processes, electronics manufacturing, and 3D design capabilities. The primary goal is to provide universal access to these tools, fostering education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact across communities. The Network's key activities include establishing a minimum of one fab lab in each congressional district, with a priority on underserved communities, and linking these labs into a cohesive national system. It aims to promote STEM skills , increase invention, create businesses and jobs, and align workforce development with emerging industries. The corporation will also serve as a resource for operating fab labs, maintaining a national registry, and setting standards and protocols for their connection. The governing body of the National Fab Lab Network will be a board of 7 to 15 members, appointed by congressional leaders, representing diverse geographic regions, Tribal communities, educational institutions, and other stakeholders. The corporation is empowered to accept and distribute funds, issue guidelines for sustainable operation, and facilitate communication among its members, while being restricted from issuing stock or distributing income for personal benefit. It will also submit annual reports to Congress on its activities.