Connecticut’s Congressional Delegation Announces First-Ever Regional Innovation Engine Program Award, $1 Million in Federal Funding from CHIPS Act

WASHINGTON–Members of Connecticut’s congressional delegation announced that a collection of Connecticut stakeholders led by the University of Connecticut and including Yale University, municipal leaders, the state of Connecticut, workforce development agencies, and private sector partners has received an award through the U.S. National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines program. This collective will receive $1 million in federal funding from the CHIPS and Science Act. This award is focused on making Connecticut the nation’s accelerator for quantum technologies and a leader in advancements in manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and finance.  At the end of this two-year development award, the collective will be able to apply for additional funding to become an NSF Engine. The NSF Engines program aims to leverage regional assets to advance critical technologies, cultivate public-private partnerships, foster regional talent, and promote economic growth.

“Earning this designation as a NSF Engine will create good-paying jobs, foster innovation, and bring new federal investment to our state. The CHIPS and Science Act was designed to supercharge the next generation of domestic manufacturing.  We are proud that Connecticut will continue to play an important role in maintaining America’s competitive edge,” the Members said. 

The awarded partners include the University of Connecticut, Yale, and their technology incubation programs; the cities of Stamford, Hartford, New Haven, and Waterbury; the CT Department of Economic and Community Development, CT Next, Advance CT, and Connecticut Innovations; CT Workforce Council and the Connecticut State College and University System; the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, and many small and large companies.

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