The federal government has designated Tulsa as a “Tech Hub,” a distinction that offers the potential for up to $75 million in federal funding to support a local consortium’s efforts in establishing the region as a global leader in advanced autonomous technologies.
Tulsa has been chosen as one of the 31 Tech Hubs by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, which is part of a $500 million investment aimed at enhancing the nation’s economic and national security.
The Tulsa Hub for Equitable & Trustworthy Autonomy, abbreviated as THETA, will primarily focus on technologies such as unmanned aerial systems, drones, cybersecurity, and generative artificial intelligence.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Tulsa Innovation Labs through a press release, with Tulsa Innovation Labs and other local partners leading the THETA initiative. This designation as a Tech Hub presents a significant opportunity for Tulsa to advance its capabilities in cutting-edge technologies and contribute to the development of these critical fields. The federal government
“The autonomous systems revolution is upon us, and it is evident through this distinction from the EDA that the Greater Tulsa Region is uniquely positioned to lead innovation in these technologies, which are critical to our country,” said Jennifer Hankins, the Managing Director of Tulsa Innovation Labs. “The Tech Hubs designation is also an important validation of TIL’s tech-led economic development strategy for the region, known as ‘Tulsa’s Tech Niche.’ This recognition underscores our commitment to fostering tech-driven advancements and economic growth in Tulsa and the broader region.”
“This moment affirms Tulsa’s position as a nationwide leader in uncrewed aerial systems, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and other complementary industries.”