Funding Withdrawal from Tech Hubs Program Hits Spokane Aerospace Initiative
SPOKANE, Wash. – The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) has announced it will withdraw funding from the Tech Hubs program, impacting the Spokane Aerospace Tech Hub among others.
The decision, revealed on Friday, indicates that while funding had been promised to six Tech Hubs, including Spokane’s, it had not yet been allocated. Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown expressed her disappointment, stating, “The rescinding of these funds is a significant setback for our region. Many people have worked hard to prepare for this investment and the economic opportunities it would bring.”
The DOC explained that the approval of these Tech Hubs was done too quickly, with decisions made based on outdated applications. The department is now focusing on updating the program to ensure it supports national security and provides fair representation along with benefiting taxpayers.
According to the DOC’s statement, “This decision prioritizes a fair and transparent process, ensuring taxpayer money is spent wisely on advancements that strengthen critical industries in the U.S.”
Mayor Brown criticized this move, declaring that “the $48 million in funding was essential for our competitiveness in aerospace manufacturing.” She has urged the congressional delegation to push the Trump Administration to reconsider the decision.
Congressman Michael Baumgartner, representing District 5, also addressed the funding cancellation, calling it “disappointing.” He emphasized that while the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center (AAMMC) remains operational for now, this delay could put the entire initiative at risk.
Baumgartner pointed out that the DOC’s decision undermines the work of over 50 local, academic, and industry partners who had already committed to the project. He also stated, “If the Department chooses to re-evaluate these grants, Spokane will be ready. The AAMMC has unique strengths and backing from institutions like Fairchild Air Force Base and Gonzaga University, and I will advocate for a fair process.”
Launched in 2022, the Tech Hubs program has distributed over $541 million across various initiatives, with 31 Tech Hubs designated in the first phase.
This latest development raises questions about the future of technological investment in the Spokane area and its implications for local economic growth.
