Science Foundation Arizona is holding simultaneous events in Tucson and Phoenix on November 18 to announce the creation of the Institute for Mineral Resources (IMR) at the University of Arizona as "the preeminent global center for mineral resource development." A follow on event is set for Thatcher/Safford on Nov. 20.
The center is a joint state-industry-academia collaboration for "internationally competitive R&D innovators in improved and sustainable mining technologies related to production, efficiency, education, and mining safety." I've heard estimates of a budget of $1-2 million per year.
I know Mark Barton and Eric Seedorf at the UA Dept. of Mining and Geologic Engineering have been working on this initiative for a long time as well as many others. Invitations to the announcement event just came out this morning: In Phoenix, it will be at the Mining and Mineral Museum (ADMMR); In Tucson, at the San Xavier mine. I'll post more info as it becomes available but wanted to share the news now.