NSF launches $1.9B innovation initiative with grants to 12 regional tech hub partnerships

The U.S. National Science Foundation has awarded 12 collaborative regional innovation engine initiatives, providing $15 million in initial funding over two years to each, with the potential for up to $160 million over the next decade for each. The awards will build regional innovation hubs focused on critical technologies—including biotechnology, critical minerals, quantum computing, energy grid modernization, advanced manufacturing, biomanufacturing and sustainable seafood—to accelerate commercialization, strengthen domestic supply chains, prepare workers for emerging industries and drive economic growth. Lead institutions include Oregon State, Indiana, Case Western Reserve, West Virginia, Iowa State universities; and the universities of Missouri–Kansas City, Alaska Fairbanks, North Carolina at Charlotte, Connecticut, and Rochester; as well as the Northeastern Regional Association of Coastal Ocean Observing Systems and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology.