The U.S. Economic Development Administration has granted $34 million in federal funds to the Kansas City BioSecure Manufacturing Tech Hub.

The funding will be derived from the federal Tech Hubs program, established by the CHIPS and Science Act.

It is well to be noted that Kansas City BioSecure Manufacturing Tech Hub unites universities, businesses, hospitals, and manufacturers, as well as government agencies in Kansas and Missouri.

The collaboration will be focused on biomanufacturing, a process that utilizes living cells and biological procedures to produce products like vaccines, biologic drugs, and other types of advanced medicines.

The funds will be used for projects to enhance drug development, grow the biotech workforce of the region, and establish the domestic supply chain when it comes to medical products.

Apparently, the elected officials from both parties weighed in on the statement.

Republican U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran said he backed the CHIPS and Science Act and continued funding as far as the Tech Hubs program is concerned.

Moran remarked that “Today marks a significant milestone for the Greater Kansas City area and will help strengthen the future of bio- and medical research and development throughout the region. I have long supported this program to give Kansas the opportunity to play a key role in supporting our national and economic security through increased research in biotechnology and other key technology areas.”

Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids stated that the investment is expected to boost domestic production of lifesaving medicines and generate good-paying jobs.

As per Davids, “This investment is a huge win for Kansas City. Our region has everything it takes to lead the future of medical innovation, and this investment is proof that the rest of the country sees that, too. It will help create good-paying jobs, strengthen our regional economy, and reinforce America’s supply chains and national security.”

KC BioHub said the investment could result in thousands of jobs and $9.2 billion in economic output over the next ten years. KC BioHub’s president, Melissa Roberts Chapman, said that “This award is a vote of confidence in the strength of our regional assets, the depth of our partner relationships, and the promise of our shared vision for the future. Together, we have demonstrated that our region has the talent, infrastructure, partnerships, and innovation necessary to onshore the manufacturing of biologics. As a consortium, we have positioned the Kansas City region to lead in the global race to build the next great biotech ecosystem.”