(The Center Square) – Montana is receiving $40 million in federal funds due to legislation sponsored by U.S. Sen. Steve Daines.

The “Endless Frontier Act” calls for increased investments in science and technology innovation as a way of strengthening the U.S. economy and national security to compete with China and other nations.

“Montana continues to lead the nation in innovation,” said Gov Greg Gianforte in a news release. “Thanks to our growing dominance in new and emerging industries like photonics and quantum computing, Montana is quickly becoming the envy of the nation.”

Photonics involves light, the science of it and the technology it brings. Systems involve various uses, from commercial equipment to communications devices and biomedical equipment, among other things.

The $40 million will go toward the Montana Headwaters Hub. Led by Accelerate Montana, the Hub will work with existing companies and infrastructure in Bozeman, Missoula and other areas to create and deliver smart photonic sensing systems and autonomous systems that will address everything from disaster prevention needs to resource management and defense. Daines said The Treasure State is already home of leading photonics companies and believes this will only help the situation.

“Montana is leading the country in tech innovation, which will help us win the race against China, create good-paying jobs here at home and further boost our economy,” said Daines in a separate news release. “I am grateful to help advance Montana’s ability to contribute even further to the important research, development, and jobs that will help strengthen our national security and help the country stay competitive globally.”

The “Endless Frontier Act” was included in the “Chips and Science Act,” which President Joe Biden signed into law in August 2022. Daines was the only federal legislator from Montana to sponsor the measure.