With $500 million in federal funds up for grabs, a coalition of Colorado industry leaders, academics, and state officials have come together to support an effort for Colorado to become an official Tech Hub. The U.S. Department of Commerce will announce the chosen hubs next week, and Colorado has a good chance of being selected due to its central location and the belief in spreading tech innovation throughout the country. The program, known as the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs, aims to invest in 10 advanced industries, including advanced energy, artificial intelligence, and next-generation manufacturing.
While the funding available is currently limited, being designated as a Tech Hub carries a certain cachet that can attract and retain companies, and supports the development of the local ecosystem. The program has seen applications from nearly every state, and even if Colorado is not selected, the coalition’s strategy may serve as a blueprint for future funding opportunities.
Colorado has focused its bid on two specific industries: advanced energy and quantum technology. Quantum technology already has a strong research and commercial presence in the state, and Colorado is positioning itself as a leading hub for this emerging field. The goal is to bring together a diverse workforce to support the commercialization of quantum technology, with a focus on inclusivity and providing opportunities to underserved communities and rural regions.
Regardless of the outcome, Colorado’s bid for Tech Hub status demonstrates the state’s commitment to nurturing innovation and economic growth. Even if the federal funding does not come through, the groundwork has been laid for future partnerships and potential funding from other sources.
Sources:
– [Original Article](link)
– [U.S. Tech Hubs Program](link)
– [Brookings Institution](link)
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2023-10-14 10:11:35
#Colorado #Awaits #Selection #Tech #Hub #Federal #Program
