The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced up to $7.5 million in new funding to create as many as 20 Regional Innovation Clusters (RICs) designed to restore America’s manufacturing strength, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and bring jobs back home.
With 98% of U.S. manufacturers classified as small businesses, the SBA says the program will give these companies access to the resources and technical assistance they need to compete in critical industries and rebuild domestic production capacity.
“President Trump’s fair trade policy sets the foundation for the return of American industrial dominance – and at the SBA, we’re working to support this agenda with targeted resources for domestic manufacturers,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “Our new RIC funding and ongoing outreach serves small businesses with practical tools to reshore jobs and critical industries – reducing our reliance on foreign suppliers and protecting American strength and security.”
The SBA is seeking competitive proposals from organizations prepared to launch new RICs, especially those with strong partnerships and proven experience in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, critical minerals, nuclear microreactors, quantum technology and emerging systems, artificial intelligence, information technology (including cybersecurity, cyber operations, and data storage), and semiconductors.
Regional Innovation Clusters act as concentrated networks of interconnected businesses, suppliers, service providers, and institutions within a specific industry. They help small firms navigate funding, procurement, and supply chain opportunities, and connect innovative technologies to market needs. The SBA launched the RIC program in 2010, and the new funding round continues its mission to boost U.S. manufacturing competitiveness.
The solicitation for proposals closes on August 8, 2025, at 4 p.m. ET. More information is available through the SBA’s Regional Innovation Clusters program.