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Northern Virginia is emerging as a dynamic nexus for biotechnology, medical technology, and deep-tech innovation through the launch of an ambitious new initiative, the Northern Virginia International Soft Landing Accelerator (NISA). Rooted in the region’s evolving Innovation District at George Mason University’s SciTech campus, NISA represents a forward-thinking approach to integrating international startups into the United States’ vibrant life sciences and technology ecosystem.

This summer, George Mason University graduate students rolled up their sleeves in busy labs, learned their way around unfamiliar equipment, and even played a part in moving clinical trials forward, working with start-ups and biotech companies in the recently established Innovation District anchored by the university’s Science and Technology Campus.

Northern Virginia is debuting a program that brings biotech, medtech, and deep-tech innovators from around the world into its broadening business community. The Northern Virginia International Soft Landing Accelerator (NISA) gives startups the tools to reach the market, connect with investors, and flourish.

With the continued downsizing of the federal government, the region’s first innovation district in Virginia is laying the groundwork for growth in high-tech industry sectors, while lessening the reliance on the federal government.

With an investment of $50,000 over the next two years, I-66 Express Mobility Partners (I-66 EMP) – the builder and operator of the 66 Express Outside the Beltway under a 50-year public-private partnership (P3) with the Commonwealth of Virginia – has officially become a Founding Partner of the new Innovation District to be anchored at George Mason University’s SciTech campus in Manassas.

Northern Virginia’s first Innovation District is officially underway, thanks to a major investment from the state. Governor Glenn Youngkin recently announced a $2.6 million grant from GO Virginia, a state-funded initiative focused on strengthening regional economies and supporting high-wage industries. Local governments, businesses, and educational institutions will contribute an additional $1.3 million, bringing the total initial investment to $3.9 million.

The Innovation District in Manassas is receiving a $2.6 million Growth and Opportunity for Virginia state grant in part to bolster George Mason University’s programming at its Science and Technology Campus. Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced the grant along with seven others June 27. The local initiative received by far the greatest share of funding, with the next largest – GO TEC Launch in the New River Valley and Roanoke County – receiving nearly $995,000.

Thanks to a major investment from GO Virginia, Northern Virginia’s first Innovation District is taking shape, laying the groundwork for growth in high-tech industry sectors like life sciences, aerospace, defense, and semiconductors.

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced more than $6.8 million in Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) grant awards for eight projects aimed at advancing Virginia’s innovation economy and expanding regional talent pipelines to support the expansion of strategic industry sectors including energy, life sciences, information technology, manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture. More than $3.5 million in additional local and non-state funding has been committed by participating partners to support these efforts.

Prince William County, the City of Manassas and George Mason University (GMU) are embarking on a new joint venture: the Innovation District. According to a concept plan document from 2024, the goal of the Innovation District — placed around the GMU SciTech Campus — is to connect jurisdictions and industry to create “lasting benefits for the community.”