The Healey-Driscoll administration, in partnership with the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Innovation Institute, has announced $16.3 million in funding to establish 14 TechHubs across Massachusetts. The initiative, part of the MA TechHubs Program under the Mass Leads Act, is designed to support technology and innovation in regional economies. The announcement took place at Worcester Polytechnic Institute with Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley in attendance.
According to the Massachusetts government news release, the program will provide grants to support strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and large-scale innovation projects. The 14 TechHubs, located across the state from the Berkshires to the South Coast, represent industries such as advanced optics, bioindustrial manufacturing, quantum technologies, and robotics.
Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley noted in the same release that the program recognizes regional differences in innovation. Up to $5 million in transformation grants will fund major projects, including advanced optics development in Pittsfield, a “BioHub” in Worcester, and marine technology commercialization in New Bedford. Nearly $600,000 in strategy development grants will help six TechHubs refine their economic growth plans.
The Massachusetts TechHub Network has also been launched to connect regional innovation leaders and share resources, helping to coordinate efforts and strengthen economic development across the state.
