Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2025

This bill tells the Department of Defense to set up a network of regional “technology hubs” around the country. These hubs would bring together universities, small businesses, defense companies, nonprofits, and local and state governments to speed up work on key military technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum tech, hypersonics, biotech, and advanced manufacturing. The goal is to boost national security, create jobs, and build a skilled workforce in many regions, not just the usual tech centers .

The Defense Department would pick at least 10 hubs within three years, aiming for a good geographic spread. Hubs could get grants to start up and to fund research, prototypes, and moving ideas into real use. The federal government could cover up to half of a hub’s annual costs. The bill authorizes $375 million for 2026–2030, with $75 million for grants. Hubs must follow strong cybersecurity rules, protect sensitive research, and block “foreign entities of concern.” The Department can set flexible rules for projects under $10 million to speed testing and prototyping. The program must coordinate with existing efforts (like DARPA, DIU, EDA tech hubs, and NSF engines), and it includes regular evaluations and reports. It takes effect 180 days after it becomes law .

Key points

• Who is affected: Local communities near defense sites and universities; students and workers seeking tech training; small and large businesses in defense and advanced tech; state and local governments that join hub consortia .
• What changes: New regional hubs to speed research, prototyping, and real-world use; grants and shared funding; stricter security rules; faster purchasing for small projects; better coordination with existing programs; regular progress checks .
• When: At least 10 hubs within three years of enactment; overall program starts 180 days after enactment; funding runs 2026–2030; evaluations happen yearly at first .