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What is a Regional Tech Hub?

The Regional Tech Hubs Program was created to strengthen national and economic security by investing in regions that were already excelling in critical technology areas. Funded through the CHIPS+Science Act and managed by the Economic Development Administration (EDA) within the U.S. Department of Commerce, tech hubs designated under this program represent geographic-based coalitions focused on spurring innovation in key technology areas to ultimately strengthen national security.

Out of nearly 400 applications, Heartland BioWorks was one of only 31 to receive a designation as a tech hub, and one of only 12 to receive implementation funding. This funding from EDA will help establish the Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub through 2029, and it will self-sustain beyond this point, continuing as an engine for innovation and economic growth in Indiana for decades to come.

Why was Indiana designated as a Regional Tech Hub for biotechnology and biomanufacturing?

Biotechnology and biomanufacturing are cornerstone industries in Indiana—home to the world’s largest pharmaceutical company and the top U.S. exporter of life sciences products. To build on this momentum, ARI, in collaboration with industry, academic, and government partners, led Indiana’s Regional Tech Hub application in biomaufacturing. Indiana’s strong foundation in life sciences, biomanufacturing, and advanced manufacturing positions the state as a national leader ready to shape the future of the bioeconomy.

What is the industry scope of the Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub?

The Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub’s current projects are focused on building biotechnology and biomanufacturing capabilities and workforce to support a broad range of applications across human, animal, and plant sciences.

How is the $51 million from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) being spent?

ARI was awarded $51 million to begin implementing four Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub projects.

  1. BioLaunch is the innovation and commercialization project, aimed at accelerating innovation, development, and commercialization of biotech and biomanufacturing solutions.
  2. BioTrain is the workforce development project, aimed at identifying career pathways, creating flexible, stackable credentials, and developing relevant industry training to expand the trained biomanufacturing workforce.
  3. The HQ will be the Tech Hub’s headquarters and a 27,000 sq. ft. training facility for hands-on, experiential biomanufacturing training.
  4. Governance will provide the infrastructure and human capital needed to effectively convene and coordinate Indiana’s stakeholders to provide a new, integrated collaboration model for the region’s biotech ecosystem.

What is BioTrain?

BioTrain, Heartland BioWorks' workforce development project, addresses Indiana's projected biotech labor shortage by preparing talent for key roles and careers in biomanufacturing. Developed with BioCrossroads, Purdue, and Ivy Tech, BioTrain will offer flexible, stackable credentials for entry-level positions and, through EmployIndy, will recruit from local populations, offer support services, and facilitate smooth transitions from training to employment. Industry-recognized curricula will also be offered for employers to upskill or reskill their current workforce. These trainings will be hosted at the Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub training facility with state-of-the-art equipment, to be located in the 16 Tech Innovation District. Going forward, BioTrain will serve as a regional biomanufacturing workforce training hub.

What is BioLaunch?

BioLaunch is Heartland BioWorks' biotech and biomanufacturing innovation and commercialization project. By formalizing a network of navigation resources, mentorship opportunities, and non-dilutive grant funding, BioLaunch will accelerate innovation, development, and commercialization of biotech and biomanufacturing solutions.

How can I stay informed about the Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub’s activities and opportunities?

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