In a significant move for Massachusetts' economy and national security capabilities, Governor Maura Healey has set the defense sector in her sights with the launch of the Massachusetts Strategic Hub for Innovation, Exchange and Leadership in Defense (SHIELD). The initiative aims to put Massachusetts at the forefront of national defense innovation, generating jobs and advancing the state as a leader in the industry. Alongside SHIELD, Healey confirmed close to $47 million in funding. This money will go toward military innovation, broadening microelectronics and chip production, and creating high-quality employment in the state, according to a report by Mass.gov.
As reported by Mass.gov, the defense industry is not just a line item in Massachusetts’ economic balance sheet. Instead, it's a cornerstone that supports over 130,000 jobs and spurs $48.6 billion in annual economic output. "Massachusetts is proud of our defense leadership – we are the birthplace of the National Guard, the U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Coast Guard, and we’ve carried that legacy of innovation and service forward for generations," Governor Healey said in a statement.
The new SHIELD program involves an Executive Order aimed at intensifying defense sector support across state agencies. It also includes the creation of a SHIELD Working Group, with the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech) taking the helm. Additionally, the Executive Office for Economic Development (EOED) will now feature a defense industry focus within its Business Front Door Navigator team, designed to connect defense companies with state resources and avenues for growth. "Massachusetts has always led where innovation meets impact," stated Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley, as Mass.gov reports in their coverage of the launch.
Moreover, the Healey-Driscoll administration joins hands with the Business Executives for National Security (BENS) to propel future initiatives focusing on national security and economic growth within Massachusetts. “This is a great time for states," General Tim Ray, President & CEO of BENS, told Mass.gov. "The combination of shifting national security demands and new federal instruments makes this a pivotal moment for state-level leadership,” he added.
The IMPACT center, an integral part of today’s announcement, has secured up to $25 million in state and local funding. This comes in partnership with the City of Lowell, and is earmarked for the construction of a new facility that stands to generate jobs, revenue, and foster educational and workforce development. Draper, the nonprofit overseeing its construction, will look to continue executing huge government contracts from the city. Lowell City Manager Thomas A. Golden, Jr. expressed his gratitude for the state’s support, saying, "This is more than a building – it’s a catalyst for economic growth, workforce development, and opportunity for generations to come." as reported by Mass.gov.
The governor also made known a $11.4 million injection of federal and state funds for safeguarding U.S. military personnel, in combination with the U.S. Army’s Natick Soldier Systems Center and Hanscom Air Force Base. The investment will inspire innovation both in terms of BioNexus, the Army's endeavor, and the advancement of Air Force innovation at Hanscom. What's more, Healey unveiled $10.2 million in grants to nine organizations bolstering the state’s microelectronics environment through the SCALE Capital Program. “Through the Northeast Microelectronics Commons (NEMC) Hub, Massachusetts has been leading a collective, regional effort to advance technologies critical to national security,” said MassTech CEO Carolyn Kirk in the Mass.gov report.
