Arizona Commerce Authority Press Release
PHOENIX, AZ (July 8, 2025) – The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), in partnership with the Southwest Mission Acceleration Center (SW MAC) today announced the launch of the Arizona Office of Defense Innovation (ODI), a new public-private partnership that will expand Arizona’s aerospace and defense leadership. The strategic initiative will advance emerging dual-use technology and support the growth of Department of Defense (DoD) missions within the state.
Governor Hobbs and the Arizona Legislature established the Arizona Office of Defense Innovation through the recently enacted Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The Office will be housed within the ACA and serve as a critical hub to coordinate efforts between state agencies, defense contractors, academia, innovators, and the DoD.
“With our global industry leaders and one-of-a-kind military installations, Arizona stands at the forefront of our national defense capabilities,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “The Arizona Office of Defense Innovation Office will help drive tomorrow’s national security breakthroughs, ensuring we continue to out-innovate our adversaries and equip our warfighters with the best technology available.”
In comment to RLGR, the leader of Rose Law Group’s Space Law Practice, Shruti Gurudanti, calls it “a welcome initiative for Arizona. Looking forward to seeing Arizona grow as an aerospace hub.”
