Regional Innovation Clusters Archives

Regional Innovation Clusters

The logo for the Small Business Administration is pictured on the final day of the Great American State Fair on July 10, 2026, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Al Drago/Getty Images)

SBA refocuses Regional Innovation Cluster program following DOGE cuts

The agency recently awarded nine new contracts for the program aimed at fueling innovation in regions across the country. The RICs have a heavy defense-tech bent.

Oct 22, 2026 By Matt Bracken

(Design/Illustration by Shanima Parker / Scoop News Group)

Innovation on ice: How DOGE derailed an SBA tech program

Regional Innovation Clusters enjoyed bipartisan support for 15 years. Then Elon Musk’s group canceled awards and left backers of the tech startup initiative searching for answers.

Jun 10, 2026 By Matt Bracken