Like most modeling and simulation companies, the Providence-based, 8-person OceanState Technology gets most of its contracts from the Department of Defense. But although the DoD spends between $5 and $10 billion on modeling and simulation per year, OceanState Technology sees huge potential in commercial sectors like the medical industry as well.

But at a congressional caucus held in Norfolk, Va., last year, attendees noted only three hotbeds of modeling and simulation in the country: Norfolk; Orlando, Fla.; and Huntsville, Ala.

Part of the reason Huntsville gets attention is because it has a consortium...

As a result, [OSTC chief technical officer Steve] Swenson led efforts to incorporate the region's first trade association for the modeling and simulation industry in June last year. It's called the New England Modeling and Simulation Consortium, and its goal is to draw attention to the region's capabilities in that field to attract more funding from federal and commercial entities.

About 40 organizations, including companies and universities, have joined as tentative members of NEMSC since it formed. They are waiting for the consortium to gain nonprofit status before officially joining.