A consortium led by UNR has been selected as one of the 31 Tech Hubs by the Commerce Department, which is a significant achievement as less than 10% of applications received this designation for federal investment. This recognition highlights the potential for growth and development in Northern Nevada, particularly in the lithium industry.
The Biden administration has identified Northern Nevada as a key area for economic development, with a focus on manufacturing jobs, expanding the lithium loop, and transitioning the mining-based economy to support the clean energy boom of the 21st century. Lithium plays a crucial role in the administration’s plans to power America’s energy grid through domestic production of critical minerals.
Recently, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Sen. Jacky Rosen announced a federal award of nearly $21 million for the Lithium Loop Tech Hub led by UNR. This funding, made available through the Economic Development Administration, aims to support workforce development in the lithium industry over the next five years. The Tech Hub program was created to invest in industries like lithium batteries to enhance global competitiveness.
The funding will be used to bring together industries, local governments, labor, and educators to strategically grow the lithium loop in Northern Nevada. By partnering with community colleges, unions, state agencies, and the industry, the goal is to create a more diverse talent pipeline and provide opportunities for the region’s existing population. Additionally, the funding will support the inclusion of Native American communities in the industry and promote STEM-related occupational outreach.
Former Gov. Brian Sandoval, the president of UNR, emphasized the importance of the consortium’s partnerships in driving industry growth. The funding from the EDA, combined with support from the Nevada State Legislature, will enable targeted efforts to address gaps in the emerging lithium sector across the state. The Tech Hub designation aligns with the Biden administration’s focus on clean energy and economic development in Nevada.
The Biden administration’s commitment to clean energy in Northern Nevada is evident through targeted funding from key domestic laws like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and CHIPS. These laws have incentivized private investment, provided grants for infrastructure improvements, and supported companies working in clean energy. The administration aims to accelerate investments in battery storage and electric vehicle manufacturing in Nevada to create more job opportunities in the industry.
The Tech Hub funding will also focus on expanding access to jobs in the lithium loop by incorporating industry-specific education in schools, building pipelines to lithium jobs through community colleges, and partnering with unions for apprenticeship programs. The goal is to ensure that the region is equipped to support the growth of the lithium industry in terms of transportation, education, and housing.
While the Tech Hub program aims to bring long-lasting opportunities to Northern Nevada, stakeholders are also focused on addressing challenges like rising housing costs and access to affordable housing. The program is designed to prioritize sustainable growth and empower middle-class families by bringing good-paying jobs to regions like Reno. The Tech Hub model emphasizes breaking down economic barriers and creating opportunities for Americans in their own communities.
In conclusion, the designation of UNR as a Tech Hub for the lithium industry represents a significant investment in Northern Nevada’s economic development. The funding will support workforce development, industry growth, and sustainable opportunities in the clean energy sector, aligning with the Biden administration’s goals for domestic production and global competitiveness in critical industries like lithium batteries.
