Montana is poised to receive $41 million in federal funding for a technology hub that will focus on developing “smart optical sensing technologies,” according to Sen. Jon Tester and Sen. Steve Daines.
Both Tester and Daines recently announced the Headwaters Tech Hub, which will be located in Montana and is among the 12 Regional Tech Hubs nationwide selected to receive Phase 2 investment under the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. This legislation aims to incentivize industries like chip-making to return to the U.S. rather than relying on China. The “smart optical sensing technologies” developed in Montana will address critical areas such as autonomous systems, national defense, precision agriculture, and resource management.
While the exact allocation of funds and job creation specifics in Montana remain unclear, Tester’s office mentioned that the University of Montana, Montana State University, Salish Kootenai College, and the Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance will benefit from the funding.
Montana State University in Bozeman is likely to have a significant share of the funding as it houses several photonics companies. However, the tech hub will be led by Accelerate Montana, based on the University of Montana campus in Missoula.
“Montana has the potential for technological innovation that can keep America competitive against countries like China,” said Tester. “I advocated for this $41 million investment in the Headwaters Tech Hub to tap into rural America’s untapped potential.”
Daines attributed the funding to his bipartisan “Endless Frontier Act,” included in the CHIPS Act.
Tester emphasized the program’s benefits for Montana during a conference at Missoula College, highlighting the opportunities for innovation and economic growth.
Montana’s designation as a “tech hub” was selected from 198 applicants, with Daines supporting the state’s bid last year.
“Today’s announcement underscores Montana’s leadership in cutting-edge technology and research,” said Daines following Montana’s selection. “I am committed to advancing Montana’s contributions to research and development to enhance national security and competitiveness against China.”
David Erickson is the business reporter for the Missoulian.
