The U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) has announced plans to distribute approximately $210 million in grants to six Tech Hub Designees. This funding, which ranges from $22 million to $48 million per grant, is part of a new round of congressional support. The EDA will also collaborate with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) to provide resources and support to these hubs.
These grants are part of a broader initiative that began in July 2024 with an allocation of $504 million for 12 Tech Hubs across the United States. The total funding now exceeds $700 million for 18 centers focused on future industries and job creation.
The six Tech Hubs selected for this round were among 31 designated by President Biden in October 2023. These hubs aim to enhance the production of critical technologies, create jobs, and boost U.S. economic competitiveness and national security.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized the importance of investing in America's workforce: "To out-innovate and out-build the rest of the world, we need to ensure we’re investing in America’s talent and workforce to succeed in a 21st-century economy – that's how America maintains its competitive edge."
Cristina Killingsworth, Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, highlighted the impact of bipartisan support: "We are so pleased that bipartisan support in Congress for the Tech Hubs Program will allow us to make even more impactful investments in the future of America’s economy and national competitiveness."
The new awards are funded by appropriations from the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which could potentially provide an additional $280 million for the program.
The lead agencies receiving grants include:
- American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center focusing on aerospace materials manufacturing ($48 million)
- Southern Research Institute focusing on equitable AI-driven biotechnology ($44 million)
- Oregon State University focusing on microfluidics ($45 million)
- University of Missouri System focusing on critical mineral processing ($29 million)
- Maine Technology Institute focusing on sustainable wood biomass polymers ($22 million)
- University of Vermont focusing on gallium nitride-based semiconductors ($23 million)
The EDA also plans to expand funding for its Builder Platform, supporting NSF Regional Innovation Engines through tailored networks and partnerships.
Previously, EDA awarded $504 million in implementation grants to 12 Tech Hubs Designees in July 2024. Those not receiving grants were given Consortium Accelerator Awards worth $500,000 each.
Funding for these initiatives comes partly from proceeds expected from a spectrum auction conducted by the Federal Communications Commission as outlined by the NDAA.
The EDA continues its mission to promote competitiveness and prepare regions across America for economic growth as part of its federal economic development agenda.
