The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has announced a significant funding opportunity under the CHIPS for America program. This initiative aims to stimulate long-term, economically sustainable growth in the domestic semiconductor industry, a critical sector for U.S. economic and national security.
CHIPS Act Funding Opportunity Includes
The funding opportunity seeks applications for projects related to the construction, expansion, or modernization of commercial facilities for the fabrication of leading-edge, current-generation, and mature-node semiconductors. As of June 23, 2023, the scope of this funding opportunity has been expanded to include applications for the construction, expansion, or modernization of commercial facilities for semiconductor materials and manufacturing equipment facilities, provided the capital investment equals or exceeds $300 million.
This expansion of the funding opportunity is a significant step towards strengthening the U.S. semiconductor industry. It not only supports the development of advanced semiconductor fabrication facilities but also encourages investment in the broader semiconductor ecosystem, including materials and manufacturing equipment facilities.
Upcoming Funding Opportunities
Two additional funding opportunities are set to be announced later this year. These will cater to materials and manufacturing equipment facilities with capital investments below $300 million, and for research and development facilities, further broadening the scope of the CHIPS for America program.
CHIPS Act Proposal Dates
The CHIPS Program Office is currently accepting statements of interest from all potential applicants for this and all future funding opportunities on a rolling basis. For leading-edge facilities, both pre-applications (optional) and full applications are being accepted. For current-generation, mature-node, and back-end production facilities, pre-applications are currently being accepted, with full applications to be accepted on a rolling basis beginning June 26, 2023.
For potential applications for semiconductor materials and manufacturing equipment facilities with capital investments equal to or exceeding $300 million, pre-applications will be accepted on a rolling basis starting September 1, 2023, and full applications will be accepted on a rolling basis starting October 23, 2023.
The application portal and additional resources, including fact sheets, environmental compliance information, and a workforce development planning guide, are available on the NIST website. The CHIPS Program Office will be updating guides and templates to address newly eligible potential applicants.
The CHIPS for America funding opportunity represents a significant investment in the future of the U.S. semiconductor industry. By supporting the construction, expansion, and modernization of commercial fabrication facilities, as well as materials and manufacturing equipment facilities, this initiative is set to catalyze growth and innovation in this critical sector.
Applying for CHIPS Funding
If your company has considered applying for CHIPS funding, EverGlade Consulting is the right partner to help make that a reality. EverGlade has a full suite of experienced consulting professionals prepared to support your CHIPS Funding Application to the Department of Commerce. Our team has helped both large and small companies prepare, submit, and win applications for federal funding to expand U.S. manufacturing capabilities and repatriate critical supply chains. EverGlade consultants can help develop your business plan, prepare financial projections, and assemble a concise and complete package to take advantage of this unique program. With a successful history of supporting diverse clients through the application process, our team’s unique understanding of the federal funding landscape will strengthen the chances of your proposal’s success.
For additional information about EverGlade Consulting, visit CHIPS Funding Application Support.