Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) are of vital importance to the U.S. government. Therefore, it has made CET funding and support a top priority.
The U.S. National Security Strategy identifies expanding economic prosperity and opportunity as one of three primary goals.
The following critical and emerging technology areas are deemed of critical importance to U.S. national security and economic leadership:
- Advanced Computing
- Advanced Engineering Materials
- Advanced Gas Turbine Engine Technologies
- Advanced and Networked Sensing and Signature Management
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Biotechnologies
- Clean Energy Generation and Storage
- Data Privacy, Data Security, and Cybersecurity Technologies
- Directed Energy
- Highly Automated, Autonomous, and Uncrewed Systems (UxS), and Robotics
- Human-Machine Interfaces
- Hypersonics
- Integrated Communication and Networking Technologies
- Quantum Information and Enabling Technologies
- Semiconductors and Microelectronics
- Space Technologies and Systems
In addition, each identified CET area includes a set of key subfields that describe its scope in more detail. These CET subfields encompass over 50 different high-technology products and services.
In 2023, the U.S. government (USG) released a National Standards Strategy for Critical and Emerging Technology. The document provides recommended actions for the USG to support and work with the private sector to address opportunities to help achieve CET national goals.
There are numerous U.S. funding opportunities and grants available to foreign direct investors that focus on critical emerging technologies. These funding resources may be found through various state economic development office programs. Eligibility requirements and deadlines vary. In addition, there are numerous Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (“Techhubs”) throughout the United States, championed by the U.S Economic Development Administration that further these goals. This will be the subject of a future article.