Binghamton University Secures Massive Grant, Largest in School History

Binghamton University has achieved a significant milestone by securing up to $160 million in federal funding over the next decade.

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Binghamton University emerged as the winner of the National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines competition through its battery manufacturing and innovations hub.

The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program aims to foster innovation ecosystems across the United States. Its objective is to advance critical technologies such as batteries, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, advanced wireless technologies, and biotechnology.

The Binghamton University-led Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine, which was created through Senator Chuck Schumer's CHIPS & Science Law in 2022, will be the recipient of this substantial funding. The project will receive an immediate $15 million for the next two years, with the potential for a total sum of $160 million over the project's lifespan.

All research and development will be conducted in the Southern Tier, with partnerships extending across Upstate New York. Senator Schumer emphasizes that this grant will not only strengthen the battery supply chain but also expedite the transfer of battery technologies from laboratories to the market. Resources will be mobilized to support use-inspired research and development, complementing battery manufacturing initiatives and fostering indispensable collaborations.

Acknowledging the significance of this achievement, Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her gratitude to Senator Schumer, President Biden, and New York's congressional delegation for their contributions. She emphasized that the CHIPS and Science Act, championed by Majority Leader Schumer, solidifies New York's position as a leader in battery technology.

Since being awarded funding in 2022, the New Energy New York Coalition, with Binghamton University leading the way, has played a pivotal role in supporting over 30 high-tech startups through innovation and technology translation programs. These initiatives have further established New York State as the premier destination for battery and energy storage technology startups, from prototyping to scale-up to manufacturing.