Baumgartner Responds to U.S. Department of Commerce’s Decision on Spokane Tech Hub Funding Opportunity

WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Michael Baumgartner (WA-5) issued the following statement regarding the Department of Commerce’s decision not to move forward with a planned award to the Spokane Tech Hub.

“Today’s decision by the Commerce Department to re-compete Tech Hub grants is disappointing. The American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center (AAMMC) isn’t closing today—but this delay, which could stretch a year or more, puts the entire effort at unnecessary and potentially irreversible risk,” said Congressman Baumgartner. 

“The Department is walking away from a selection process it has already completed, undermining the work of more than 50 committed local, academic, federal, and industry partners who stepped up in good faith,” Baumgartner continued.

“That said, if the Department insists on re-competing these funds, Spokane will be ready. The AAMMC offers unmatched capabilities in aerospace materials, backed by the strength of institutions like Fairchild Air Force Base, Gonzaga, Eastern, and Whitworth. I will fight to ensure this process is fair and transparent,” he added.