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The City of Yuma, as the lead applicant for the Southwest Regional Aerospace Innovation Alliance (Alliance), has been named a finalist in the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines program.
This recognition places Yuma among 71 finalists nationwide and one of only two in Arizona for this highly competitive initiative to create regional innovation networks.
The Alliance brings together key regional partners, including Elevate Southwest, Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation, and Arizona Western College, to drive innovation and economic growth in aerospace, satellite communications, and defense industries.
The NSF Engines program supports regional innovation across the U.S., particularly in areas that have not fully participated in the technology boom of recent decades. If selected, the Alliance could receive up to $160 million over 10 years of funding to help establish a cutting-edge spaceport in Yuma.
As part of its proposal, the Alliance seeks to:
- Establish a Yuma-based spaceport to enhance national security and reduce costs compared to coastal alternatives.
- Advance environmentally friendly propulsion systems for space exploration.
- Equip the workforce with skills to meet demands in aerospace, defense, and satellite industries.
- Create 2,500–3,000 new jobs annually and drive $2 billion in annual industrial growth.
“The City of Yuma is proud to lead this effort, which could transform the region by positioning Yuma as a leader in aerospace innovation, attracting high-tech industries and creating thousands of jobs,” said Acting City Administrator Jay Simonton.
The NSF Engines program aims to address economic, societal, and global challenges while fostering innovation-driven growth in underserved regions. Final proposals are due February 11, 2025, with funding contingent on achieving annual performance milestones.
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