Governor Greg Abbott has announced a $12 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) to Texas Tech University. The funding will support the construction of a nanotechnology laboratory cleanroom at the university’s Semiconductor Nanofabrication Center in Lubbock.
“Texas is where innovations in semiconductor research and development power future technologies,” Governor Abbott stated. “With this TSIF grant, Texas Tech University will accelerate advanced research on next-generation semiconductors and provide hands-on training to enhance workforce readiness. Working together with our higher education partners, we prepare Texas students today for the in-demand jobs of tomorrow.”
The initiative involves Texas Tech University and its Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering building and equipping a cleanroom facility intended to promote semiconductor research and workforce training. The facility will support projects focusing on innovation in solid-state lasers, energy projection and detection components, sensors, and ultra-light high-power electronics.
“We are grateful for the support of the Governor’s Office and the confidence it reflects in Texas Tech University,” said Lawrence Schovanec, President of Texas Tech University. “This investment strengthens our ability to contribute to the state’s growing semiconductor ecosystem through research, innovation, and workforce development. It also affirms the important role that higher education plays in advancing the competitiveness and economic strength of Texas.”
Senator Charles Perry commented on the significance of investing in advanced technology: “This investment is about keeping Texas competitive and secure in an increasingly technology-driven world. By supporting advanced semiconductor research and workforce training at Texas Tech, we’re strengthening our supply chain, preparing Texans for high-paying jobs, and ensuring innovation happens here at home—not overseas.”
Representative Carl Tepper added: “We appreciate Governor Abbott’s investment in Texas Tech, and we’re proud to be recognized as a leading research institution on the national and global stage. The resulting innovations transform into tangible advancements for all of Texas and beyond.”
The TSIF grant is part of ongoing efforts by state leadership to advance semiconductor manufacturing capabilities within Texas. In 2023, Governor Abbott signed into law the Texas CHIPS Act, which established both TSIF—a grant program—and the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium (TSIC). These programs are managed by the Texas CHIPS Office, under the Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Governor’s executive branch.
According to information from Governor Abbott’s official website, his office leads initiatives focused on economic development—including fostering job growth—and supports educational enhancement across Texas while promoting innovation throughout key industries such as semiconductors.
