Regional innovation systems across the country can learn from the journeys of the EDA's designated Tech Hubs, regardless of your region’s competitive advantage. The twelve hubs continue to make progress, with consortia launching new programs and advancing key initiatives. The following highlights recent news from a selection of hubs. SSTI supports the Tech Hub community through its Technology-Based Economic Development Community of Practice.
Advanced Workforce Development: Colorado School of Mines will launch what it considers as a uniquebachelor's degree in quantum systems engineering in Fall 2026, developed in alignment with Elevate Quantum. The program takes an interdisciplinary approach, including courses in physics, electrical and mechanical engineering, and computer science, and includes an industry-sponsored capstone project. Students will also have access to Quantum Commons, a 70-acre campus being developed by Elevate Quantum to support quantum R&D, manufacturing, and commercialization.
Research & Innovation Vouchers: The NY SMART I-Corridor has awarded more than $350,000 in innovation vouchers to six companies across upstate New York through its NY THRIVE program, giving them direct access to research facilities, specialized equipment, and faculty expertise at partner universities. The first round of vouchers supports projects spanning the semiconductor supply chain, including printed circuit board reliability, photonic integration, and next-generation battery materials.
Partnerships for commercialization: SC NEXUS for Advanced Resilient Energy has launched the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Exchange (eiX) in partnership with the South Carolina Research Authority to accelerate the commercialization of advanced energy technologies. The program's first component, the eiX Venture Accelerator, will recruit entrepreneurs, source technologies from federal labs and universities, and help prepare companies for deployment within SC NEXUS's energy testbeds.