In this funding stream, we prioritize collaborative/regional industry partnership projects with industry groups that are established or emerging in the Southern Interior region. We hope to serve as a catalyst for new economic development initiatives supporting industry cluster development, research and adaptation of innovative technologies, industry wide collaboration to address business challenges or opportunities, reduce environmental impacts, such as waste or energy utilization and improve sustainability. Our goal is to: Improve the competitiveness of key industry sectors in the Southern Interior Encourage and create opportunities for industry sector collaboration and strategic partnerships Support the creation and growth of industry clusters Stimulate the research and adaptation of innovative technologies and business practices Support initiatives which focus or reducing environmental impacts i.e., waste, energy reduction Support sector initiatives aimed at transitioning to and achieving a Net Zero economy