- Tulsa awarded $51 million for Autonomous Technology Development
- Funding aims to enhance region’s capabilities in autonomous systems
- Tulsa selected from 12 regions for EDA’s Tech Hubs program
- Funding to create up to 56,000 new jobs over the next decade
- THETA initiative led by steering committee with over 75 partners
Advancing Autonomous Technology in Tulsa
The recent announcement of Tulsa being awarded $51 million to advance autonomous technology development marks a significant milestone in the region’s journey towards becoming a hub for innovative technologies. The Biden-Harris Administration, in collaboration with the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), has recognized Tulsa’s potential in autonomous systems by allocating this substantial funding to the Tulsa Hub for Equitable and Trustworthy Autonomy (THETA).
Driving Economic Growth Through Autonomous Systems
The primary goal of this funding is to enhance Tulsa’s capabilities in autonomous systems through advanced manufacturing and the deployment of critical technologies that are crucial for both national security and economic prosperity. Tulsa has been selected as one of the 12 regions to receive funding under the EDA’s Tech Hubs program, highlighting the region’s potential to lead the way in autonomous technology development.
Tulsa’s rich history of innovation, coupled with significant assets and previous federal investments, such as the 2022 EDA Build Back Better Regional Challenge award, positions the region as a frontrunner in advancing U.S. leadership in equitable and trustworthy autonomous systems. The focus areas include uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), autonomous vehicles, drones, and robotics, with applications ranging from agriculture to pipeline inspections and regional transportation.
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Collaborative Efforts to Drive Innovation
The success of the THETA initiative is attributed to the collaboration between various stakeholders, including Tulsa Innovation Labs, Osage Nation, Cherokee Nation, Black Tech Street, and several others. This diverse partnership is crucial in ensuring the development of autonomous technologies with a strong emphasis on security and trustworthiness, making the benefits and job opportunities accessible to a wide range of individuals.
The EDA’s Tech Hubs funding aims to position the Greater Tulsa Region to tap into the lucrative $1.36 trillion global autonomous systems market, potentially creating up to 56,000 new jobs over the next decade. The innovative solutions developed in this sector play a vital role in enhancing economic competitiveness and national security, from enhancing battlefield protection to facilitating the delivery of essential services to rural communities.
Empowering Communities and Driving Inclusive Growth
The funding not only supports the development of autonomous technologies but also aims to empower communities and drive inclusive growth. The THETA initiative is led by a steering committee comprising organizations such as Black Tech Street, Cherokee Nation Businesses, and various educational institutions like Oklahoma State University and Tulsa Community College. These collaborations are essential in fostering a diverse and inclusive industry base that harnesses the talents of many, ensuring that the benefits are shared widely.
Projects funded under the THETA initiative, such as the SAFE-T project led by Osage LLC, are focused on creating research and development opportunities that further enhance the region’s appeal to drone and autonomous systems companies. The commitment of organizations like Osage LLC to the growth and success of the region underscores the collective effort to drive innovation and economic prosperity through autonomous technology development.
The $51 million awarded to Tulsa to advance autonomous technology development represents a significant step towards establishing the region as a leading hub for innovative technologies. The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, the focus on security and trustworthiness, and the potential to create thousands of new jobs underscore the transformative impact of autonomous systems on economic growth and national security. Tulsa’s journey towards becoming a powerhouse in autonomous technology is not just a regional endeavor but a testament to the collective vision of empowering communities and driving inclusive growth through innovative solutions.
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