Alabama to receive greater share of Federal science and tech research money

Alabama and two dozen mostly rural and low income states are set to receive a greater share of federal research money, thanks to a new science and technology funding law that steers money outside major research hubs in California, Massachusetts and New York, according to Roll Call.

The Program

The National Science Foundation program, known as the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, or EPSCoR, has identified 28 states and territories that were underfunded when it comes to receiving science and technology research funding.

In 2021, some of the states that met the criteria for underfunded states included:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Idaho
• Montana 
• Wyoming

When asked about the Roll Call story by The Bama Buzz,  the University of Alabama provided the following statement about the prospect of additional funding coming to the state.

“As a premier comprehensive research institution, the University is grateful that this law will help level the playing field for our talented researchers to win competitive awards. This will elevate and enhance research opportunities as we develop new technologies, advance scientific discovery and harness the power of creative thought to fuel the economy of the future.”

Rise of the Rest

An issue that has received bi-partisan support from both sides of the aisle, Washington State Senator Maria Cantwell credited the book by tech entrepreneur Steve Case titled “The Rise of the Rest: How Entrepreneurs in Surprising Places Are Building the New American Dream,” for explaining the need to drive private and public funding outside the major tech hubs.

In May 2018, Case visited Birmingham on his Rise of the Rest National Bus Tour highlighting and supporting Magic City innovators.

Since his visit, the city has been recognized by several national publication for fostering and encouraging innovation.