1/21/2025: Stories on DOD’s SciTechCONNECT Platform, DOE Investments in Critical Industrial Subsectors, and more!

Public Spend Forum

6 months ago

This Week’s Tech Highlights:

DoD SciTechCONNECT: Applied Research Institute partners with DoD to launch SciTechCONNECT platform for innovation
DOE Investments in Critical Industrial Subsectors: $136 million of awards for 66 projects to boost U.S. industrial technology and energy efficiency
DHS Generative AI Playbook: DHS releases AI Playbook with steps for safe and effective AI deployment in public sector operations

Tech Sector News:

Microelectronics: CHIPS funding to support HP’s microelectronics innovations
Sustainability Tech: DOE announces $6.9 million in funding for local Waste-to-Energy projects
National Security Tech: New screening technologies to improve safety and passenger experience at airport checkpoints
CUAS: Holistic approach needed to safeguard U.S. airspace against UAS threats
AI: NETCOMS’s advanced AI/ML analytics environment integrates open-source tools for real-time data analysis
Space Tech: DIU is collaborating with three companies to enhance in-space mobility for the Department of Defense

And more!

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GENERAL EMERGING TECHNOLOGY NEWS

Applied Research Institute Joins Forces with DoD to Drive Innovation Through SciTechCONNECT

The Department of Defense launched SciTechCONNECT, a platform to enhance collaboration with innovators, startups, and institutions in addressing national security challenges. Key features include educational resources, mentorship, and networking events. Applied Research Institute (ARI) supports the initiative by fostering connections, providing expertise, and hosting events, aiming to transform defense technology innovation and accelerate impactful solutions for national security.

MIT Introduces Dual-Use Readiness Levels™

MIT has recently introduced the Dual-Use Readiness Levels™, a framework guiding startups in aligning commercial and mission-driven strategies across funding, customer, and technology dimensions. It helps bridge gaps between commercial and mission priorities, fostering innovation in dual-use applications. The model emphasizes strategic readiness and ethical adoption, providing a structured pathway for startups to scale effectively in both sectors.

Department of Energy Announces More than $136 Million in Projects To Develop Transformational Technologies Across America’s Most Critical Industrial Subsectors

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced $136 million for 66 projects aimed at advancing technologies to reduce industrial energy demand and emissions. Targeting key subsectors like chemicals, steel, cement, and forest products, these initiatives focus on efficiency, decarbonization, and innovation to strengthen U.S. supply chains, bolster economic resilience, and support industrial transformation in a competitive global market.

DHS Unveils Playbook for the Deployment of Artificial Intelligence by the Public Sector

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released the “Generative AI Public Sector Playbook” to guide government officials in responsibly deploying AI technologies. Drawing from DHS experiences, it provides actionable steps, case studies, and best practices for enhancing services while safeguarding privacy. Focus areas include mission alignment, governance, ethical use, progress tracking, and workforce training, promoting innovation across public sector organizations.

NSF Congratulates Recipients of the Prestigious National Medal of Science and National Medal of Technology and Innovation Awards

The National Medals of Science and Technology and Innovation were awarded to trailblazing individuals and organizations for transformative contributions to science, technology, and innovation. Honorees include researchers advancing STEM diversity, early-career pioneers, and industry leaders. Notable recipients include Moderna, Pfizer, and leading universities, reflecting the profound impact of innovation on global challenges and economic growth.

Department of Energy Invests $45 Million to Support Regional Consortia Focused on Securing Domestic Critical Minerals and Materials

The DOE has additionally announced $45 million for six regional projects to develop critical mineral and material supply chains from unconventional feedstocks like coal by-products and mine drainage. These efforts aim to strengthen U.S. manufacturing, clean energy, and defense industries while creating jobs and environmental benefits. Universities will lead initiatives across regions, fostering collaboration with industry and local stakeholders.

The United States and India Committed to Strengthening Strategic Technology Partnership

The U.S. and India advanced their strategic technology partnership through discussions in New Delhi, emphasizing collaboration on defense, space, clean energy, semiconductors, and AI. Key milestones include joint space missions, clean energy initiatives, semiconductor supply chain development, and expanded defense innovation. The partnership aims to strengthen technology supply chains, enhance national security, and foster innovation across both nations’ industrial and research ecosystems.

PSF ANALYSIS & INSIGHTS

PSF Analysis: Critical Bottelnecks in Battery Manufacturing

Based on our analysis and work we’ve done with a few recent clients, PSF analyzed material inputs, subcomponents, and industrial processes involved in the battery manufacturing lifecycle. Our goal is to identify key vulnerabilities and bottlenecks that could impact the U.S. industrial base.Here are some critical insights we have validated:

Material Inputs: Lithium, nickel, cobalt, and graphite are heavily reliant on foreign supply sources and face critical shortages.
Subcomponent Production: Essential components like cathodes and anodes are predominantly produced in countries like China with limited suppliers in the U.S. or allied nations. This is especially an issue in national security-focused supply chains.
Recycling Challenges: The U.S. lacks a mature battery recycling industry, leaving valuable minerals wasted in landfills.

While these are not the only vulnerabilities in the battery supply chain, they represent key areas for potential investment to strengthen U.S. resilience and reduce reliance on foreign sources.There’s a lot more to uncover. You can access the Public Innovation Ecosystem Dashboard to see more information.

Customize Insights for Your NeedsLooking for tailored data? Our Rapid Market Intelligence Sprints can customize critical tech datasets for your specific use case. Contact us at support@publicspendforum.net for more details.

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TECHNOLOGY SECTOR-SPECIFIC NEWS

Microelectronics: Dept. of Commerce Announces CHIPS Incentives Award with HP to Support Domestic Manufacturing of Next-Generation Technologies and “Lab-to-Fab” Ecosystem

The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded HP up to $53 million to expand and modernize HP’s Corvallis, Oregon facility under the CHIPS Incentives Program. The funding supports semiconductor production for life sciences equipment, leveraging HP’s MEMS technology. The project will create over 250 jobs, boosting U.S. innovation and semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.

Microelectronics: Dept. of Commerce Announces Arizona State University Research Park as Planned Site for Third CHIPS for America R&D Flagship Facility

The Department of Commerce and Natcast have announced Arizona State University’s Research Park in Tempe as the site for the third CHIPS for America R&D facility. Opening in 2028, it will focus on advanced semiconductor prototyping and packaging. This flagship facility aims to strengthen U.S. semiconductor innovation, bridge lab-to-fab gaps, and support workforce development, leveraging Arizona’s robust microelectronics landscape.

Microelectronics: Department of Commerce Announces CHIPS Incentives Award with Hemlock Semiconductor to Help Secure U.S. Production Capacity of Semiconductor-Grade Polysilicon

The Department of Commerce has awarded Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) $325 million under the CHIPS Incentives Program to build a hyper-pure polysilicon facility in Hemlock, Michigan. This project will support U.S. semiconductor supply chain security by bolstering domestic production of materials critical for advanced semiconductors.

Sustainability Tech: U.S. Department of Energy Announces $6.9 Million in Projects to Support Effective Community Waste-to-Energy Strategies

The Department of Energy (DOE) has announced $6.9 million in funding for nine projects aimed at developing local waste-to-energy solutions to support transportation energy needs. The projects, across six states, will focus on converting organic waste into low-carbon biofuels, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, waste management costs, and environmental impacts while promoting sustainable energy solutions for local communities.

Sustainability Tech: NIST Database Can Help Increase Recycling of Textiles and Clothing

Researchers at NIST developed the NIR-SORT database, which contains molecular “fingerprints” of various textile fibers to improve the sorting process at recycling centers. This database, which includes 64 fabric types, aims to increase efficiency, reduce manual labor, and lower the costs of textile recycling. It will support AI and machine learning systems, improving the accuracy of sorting and enhancing textile circularity.

Sustainability Tech: DOE Announces $1.67 Billion to Montana Renewables to Significantly Expand US Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production

The DOE’s Loan Programs Office closed a $1.67 billion loan guarantee to Montana Renewables for expanding its biofuels facility in Great Falls, Montana. This expansion will enable the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), renewable diesel, and naphtha, supporting the U.S. decarbonization efforts. The facility will produce 315 million gallons of biofuels annually, with SAF becoming a key driver in the aviation sector’s decarbonization.

National Security Tech: DHS S&T & TSA Collaborating on Advanced Imaging Technologies for Airport Security

The Department of Homeland Security’s Screening at Speed Program, in collaboration with TSA, is developing advanced security technologies for airports. These include High Definition-Advanced Imaging Technology (HD-AIT) and shoe scanners, which improve detection, reduce false alarms, and enhance the passenger experience. The systems aim to increase efficiency, with potential demonstrations at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show.

CUAS: Mitre Issues Report on Countering Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS)

MITRE has issued a report documenting the rise of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and how they present significant security threats, including surveillance, smuggling, and potential attacks on crowded areas. The report also argues that the need for expanded counter-UAS (C-UAS) authorities and better airspace protection is urgent. Recommendations include developing C-UAS data standards, increasing penalties for unauthorized UAS use, and empowering local law enforcement to enhance public safety and counter these threats.

AI: Army Debuts AI/ML Platform

The U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command (NETCOM) has launched the NETCOM Edge platform. This advanced AI/ML analytics environment integrates open-source tools for real-time data analysis to enhance network operations and security. The platform supports various Army divisions, enabling improved decision-making and threat detection. Full operational capability is expected by January 2025, with expanded user access.

Space Tech: Companies Selected for DIU Orbital Logistics Vehicle Project Moving Forward with Prototypes

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is collaborating with three companies to enhance in-space mobility for the Department of Defense. These efforts involve developing multi-orbit logistics vehicles, in-space refueling systems, and fuel depots. The initiatives aim to provide low-cost, responsive access to geostationary and other orbits, leveraging private investment to support DoD missions and capabilities.

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