Tulsa Innovation Labs receives $51 million grant

TULSA, Okla. — The Tulsa Hub for Equitable and Trustworthy Autonomy (THETA) was awarded $51 million as part of the U.S. Economic Development Association's Tech Hubs program.

THETA, led by Tulsa Innovation Labs, received a Tech Hub designation in October of 2023 from the U.S. EDA, recognizing the area's potential to become globally competitive in autonomous system development, such as drones.

The designation allowed THETA to apply for implementation funding from the EDA's Tech Hub Program.

The program is an initiative of President Biden's Administration to invest in communities across the country advancing leadership in technology.

Governor Stitt submitted letters of commitment for Tulsa's Tech Hub as part of the application process.

"Oklahoma has a long legacy of excellence in aviation, defense and manufacturing, which makes our great state the ideal location to lead the development of the next generation of autonomous technologies," said Governor Stitt in a press release. "The future of autonomous systems is right here in Oklahoma, and I am thrilled to see the innovations Oklahoma companies are generating as we continue to become a top 10 state."

THETA was selected as one of twelve tech hubs to receive funding across the United States.

"This investment not only strengthens our state's economic foundation but positions the Greater Tulsa Region as a global leader alongside other great Tech Hubs across America," said Jennifer Hankins, managing director of Tulsa Innovation Labs in a press release. "We are excited to partner with the governor and state of Oklahoma to usher in the future of innovation. We look forward to the day when autonomous vehicles, drones and robotics in use worldwide – whether protecting Americans on the battlefield or delivering medicine to the Heartland's rural communities – bear the moniker 'Tested and Made in Tulsa, USA'."

Tulsa Innovation Labs says the funding will create jobs and secure the U.S's global leadership in trustworthy autonomous.

You can find more information on Tulsa Innovation Lab's THETA by clicking here .