Governor Greg Abbott has announced a $12 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) to Texas Tech University. The funding will be used to build and equip a nanotechnology laboratory cleanroom facility at the university’s Semiconductor Nanofabrication Center in Lubbock.
“Texas is where innovations in semiconductor research and development power future technologies,” said Governor Abbott. “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 cleanroom facility will support projects focused on innovation in areas such as solid-state lasers, energy projection and detection components, sensors, and high-power electronics. The initiative aims to advance semiconductor research while providing workforce training in semiconductor manufacturing.
“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 broader impact: “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.”
More information about Texas Governor Greg Abbott can be found online; his office focuses on economic development initiatives like this one as well as supporting education enhancement throughout the state.
Governor Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law in 2023, establishing TSIF along with other programs aimed at maintaining Texas’ leadership position in semiconductor manufacturing. These programs are managed by the Texas CHIPS Office within the state’s Economic Development & Tourism Office.
