Governor Greg Abbott has announced that Tekscend Photomask Round Rock Inc. will receive a $15.2 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) to expand its photomask production facility in Round Rock. The expansion is expected to create 50 jobs and involves more than $223 million in capital investment.
“Texas is where the integrated circuit began and where the future of the semiconductor industry is being built,” said Governor Abbott. “This $223 million investment by Tekscend Photomask to expand production capacity at their photomask facility in Round Rock will further strengthen a critical supply chain for semiconductor manufacturing in Texas. By partnering with innovative industry leaders, Texas will lead the American resurgence in semiconductor manufacturing and the technologies of tomorrow.”
Tekscend Photomask manufactures photomasks, which are essential for producing semiconductor chips. The planned expansion includes increasing facility capacity by over 40%, upgrading equipment, and extending technology capabilities down to the 12nm node, which supports applications such as artificial intelligence, automotive electronics, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, microcontrollers, sensors, and other devices.
“Since 1987, Tekscend Photomask has been proud to call Round Rock home, supporting the Texas and U.S. semiconductor industry with world-class photomask manufacturing,” said Tekscend Photomask Round Rock President John Nykaza. “The support from TSIF enables us to accelerate our expansion — boosting both our technical capabilities and our production capacity. This investment not only strengthens the regional supply chain but also creates additional high-skilled jobs here in Texas, ensuring we can meet the growing research and development and commercial photomask needs of our customers for years to come.”
Senator Charles Schwertner commented on the impact of this project: “By expanding their Round Rock facility, Tekscend Photomask is helping drive the next chapter of advanced manufacturing in our region. This initiative strengthens our local economy and bolsters the infrastructure needed for continued technical progress.”
Representative John Bucy III added: “Texas continues to lead the nation in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation. The Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund grant awarded to Tekscend Photomask Round Rock Inc. represents a powerful investment in our state’s future while creating 50 high-skilled jobs right here in Round Rock. This expansion strengthens Texas’ position as the premier destination for cutting-edge technology and reinforces our commitment to building a resilient, world-class semiconductor supply chain.”
More information about Tekscend Photomask can be found online.
The TSIF was established following Governor Abbott’s signing of the Texas CHIPS Act into law in 2023. The fund aims to encourage leadership in semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing within Texas through grants administered by programs like those run by the Texas CHIPS Office, part of the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office under Governor Abbott’s administration.
According to information from the official website, Governor Greg Abbott leads efforts focused on economic development—including job creation—and innovation across Texas through his executive office since his election in 2014.
The Office of Governor Greg Abbott operates out of Austin at the State Insurance Building as part of the executive branch responsible for statewide services throughout Texas.
