The United States government has taken a significant step in its effort to strengthen the country’s semiconductor industry. The Biden-Harris Administration announced today the awarding of nearly 5 million dollars to 17 small businesses spread across nine states, as part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program.
Boosting Innovation and Competitiveness
These grants, known as SBIR Phase I awards, will fund research projects aimed at exploring the technical merit or feasibility of innovative ideas or technologies. The goal is to develop viable products or services for introduction into the commercial microelectronics market.
U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized the importance of this initiative: “With today’s awards, these 17 companies will support the efforts of CHIPS for America to grow the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem and support our national and economic security.”
Priority Research Areas
The selected projects focus on various critical areas for advancing the semiconductor industry:
– Measurement services, tools, and instrumentation
– Innovative manufacturing metrology
– Novel assurance and provenance technologies
– Advanced research and development metrology testbeds
Impact on Industry and Economy
Laurie E. Locascio, Commerce Under Secretary for Standards and Technology and Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), highlighted the potential of these investments: “We are proud to support these small businesses as they bring innovations to the commercial market and boost the U.S. economy.”
Geographic and Technological Diversity
The beneficiary companies are located in several states, including California, Colorado, Michigan, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. The projects span a wide range of technologies, from high-speed cameras for material characterization to simulation tools for photonic integrated circuits.
Next Steps
All Phase I awardees will be considered for a SBIR Phase II grant in the spring of 2025. Each Phase II award can receive funding of up to $1.91 million, representing a significant opportunity for the development and commercialization of these innovative technologies.
This initiative is part of the broader economic plan of the Biden-Harris Administration to invest in America, stimulate private sector investment, create well-paying jobs, and revitalize communities. Through these actions, the government aims to ensure U.S. leadership in the global semiconductor industry and strengthen the country’s national and economic security.
Source: nist.gov