Multibillion-dollar investment to advance US chip R&D

This initiative aims to establish a state-of-the-art semiconductor research and development centre at the NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex. The project includes the construction of North America's first and only publicly owned High NA Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography Centre, set to support the development of some of the world's most sophisticated semiconductors. This investment will significantly bolster New York's Capital Region, positioning the state as a hub for the nation’s most advanced, publicly owned semiconductor R&D infrastructure. It's expected to support New York’s tech economy long-term, creating and retaining thousands of jobs, including direct, indirect, and union construction roles.

Governor Hochul commented: “This $10 billion partnership signals to the entire industry that New York is open for business. We're laying the foundation for the future of semiconductor research here in New York, creating numerous job opportunities, and committing to workforce development and sustainability.”

Under this initiative, NY CREATES will install a High NA EUV lithography tool from ASML at its Albany NanoTech Complex. Industry partners like Micron, IBM, Applied Materials, and Tokyo Electron will utilise this advanced semiconductor equipment. The High NA EUV Centre will position New York as a leading destination for innovative chip technology research, crucial in powering modern digital devices.

This partnership also enhances New York State’s candidacy for the National Semiconductor Technology Centre’s anchor hub status, potentially unlocking over $11 billion in federal CHIPS and Science Act funding. The project is expected to create at least 700 new direct jobs and maintain thousands more, leveraging significant private investment and establishing vital talent development pipelines in collaboration with institutions like the State University of New York.

In terms of sustainability, NY CREATES and its partners have committed to aligning with New York’s Green CHIPS programme throughout the project's construction and operational phases. This includes using the best available technology for greenhouse gas emission reduction and prioritising renewable energy sources.

The project will also see the development of the NanoFab Reflection building, a highly sophisticated facility with over 50,000 sq. ft. of cleanroom space, supporting future growth and new initiatives like the National Semiconductor Technology Centre and the Department of Defence Microelectronics Commons programme.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer remarked: “This partnership is a landmark achievement for the Capital Region and a testament to the area's potential as a semiconductor R&D hub. It brings cutting-edge machinery to Upstate NY, which will drive innovation and reinforce the U.S. as a leader in semiconductor technology.”

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Representative Paul Tonko also praised the investment, emphasising its role in reinforcing New York’s global leadership in semiconductor R&D and its potential to strengthen national security.

IBM Chairman and CEO Arvind Krishna, Micron President, and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra, and others from the semiconductor industry have expressed their enthusiasm and support for the project, highlighting its significance in advancing semiconductor technology and fostering innovation.