Intel launches research, education grant program for Ohio chip manufacturing
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A 10-year, $50 million grant program will support a collaborative, multi-institution research and education program to support domestic semiconductor production.
On the heels of Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s January announcement that Intel would invest more than $20 billion to build two state-of-the-art semiconductor manufacturing facilities in the state by 2025, the company on March 17 detailed the $100 million education portion of that commitment.
In a 10-year, $50 million grant program, the company will establish the Intel Semiconductor Education and Research Program for Ohio, a collaborative, multi-institution research and education program that emphasizes innovation and real-world experience in semiconductor fabrication.
The program aims to build a skilled and educated workforce for domestic semiconductor production at the Ohio facilities and across the semiconductor development ecosystem.
Intel will accept grant proposals for curriculum development, student internships, faculty training, reskilling and upskilling programs as well as laboratory equipment upgrades and support for research to advance semiconductor fabrication.
“Intel is on a mission to lead domestic chip capacity and capability growth, and for this, we need the very best talent available,” said Keyvan Esfarjani, Intel executive vice president and chief global operations officer. “That is why Intel is investing in educational and research programs in Ohio and across the U.S. to address the technical challenges and workforce shortages in our industry.”
The National Science Foundation will match Intel’s $50 million investment, making a total of $100 million available in funding opportunities. NSF will release a request for proposals for novel research to advance semiconductor design and manufacturing and for developing curriculum improving STEM education at two-year colleges and four-year universities, including minority-serving institutions.
Intel’s investment in Ohio is expected to become one of the largest semiconductor manufacturing sites in the world over the next decade, DeWine said in January. “Advanced manufacturing, research and development, and talent are part of Ohio’s DNA, and we are proud that chips — which power the future — will be made in Ohio, by Ohioans.”