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 and equipment 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 said. “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 new facility, developed by Texas Tech University and the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering, aims to advance semiconductor research and train workers for careers in semiconductor manufacturing. The cleanroom will enable projects focused on solid-state lasers, energy projection and detection components, sensors, and high-power electronics.
“We are grateful for the support of the Governor’s Office and the confidence it reflects in Texas Tech University,” said Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec. “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 broader significance: “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 was established after Governor Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law in 2023. This legislation created both TSIF—a grant program aimed at supporting leadership in semiconductor research—and the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium (TSIC). These programs are managed by the Texas CHIPS Office, part of the Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor.
According to information from the official website, Governor Abbott’s office focuses on economic development initiatives such as fostering job growth, supporting community efforts like border security, enhancing education opportunities across Texas, and encouraging technological innovation.
