On October 23, the Biden-Harris Administration recognized the Ocean Tech Hub of Southeastern New England as one of the United States' 31 "Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs" under the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. This initiative, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, aims to fortify U.S. economic and national security by fostering emerging industries. The Ocean Tech Hub, led by the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and comprising 16 partners like IBM and Brown University, focuses on sustainable ocean technology development. It emphasizes undersea autonomy, artificial intelligence, and mitigating climate change impacts.
Christian Cowan, from the University of Rhode Island Research Foundation, defines the blue economy as the sustainable utilization of ocean resources to bolster the economy and generate quality jobs. Initiatives like the Grow Blue Partnership and the 2030 Blue Economy Action Plan are central to these efforts. Matthew Touchette of R.I. Commerce asserts that the Ocean Tech Hub's designation as a tech hub will attract external investments, propelling local economic growth and job creation.
Brown University plays a vital role in the Ocean Tech Hub, offering strategic advice, research direction, and establishing a research center focused on undersea mechanics. The university's commitment to ocean engineering and technology aligns with its goals of driving new discoveries and bolstering the local blue economy. Governor Dan McKee and University President Christina Paxson express enthusiasm for the project's potential to retain talent and invigorate Rhode Island’s position in the global ocean technology market.
This designation paves the way for significant funding opportunities, including a potential Phase 2 Implementation Grant from the EDA, which could provide up to $70 million for blue economy initiatives. The Ocean Tech Hub exemplifies Rhode Island's longstanding role in ocean technology and innovation, marking a significant step in reinforcing the state's leadership in the global ocean economy.
