Biden-Harris Administration to Provide $400 Million in Funding to GlobalWafers, Including in North Texas
The Biden-Harris Administration is taking a significant step in securing the country’s semiconductor supply chain by providing up to $400 million in funding to Taiwan-based semiconductor part producer GlobalWafers. A large portion of this funding will be allocated to the company’s Sherman site in North Texas.
In a move to stay competitive in the semiconductor space against global adversaries like Russia and China, the investment in GlobalWafers’ Sherman facility is crucial for meeting current and future demands for semiconductors and their components. The funding will also support the construction of a new facility in St. Peters, Missouri, creating 1,700 construction jobs and 880 manufacturing jobs in the U.S.
With a total investment of $4 billion planned for both facilities, GlobalWafers aims to strengthen America’s semiconductor supply chain by providing a domestic source of silicon wafers, which are essential for advanced chips. This initiative aligns with President Biden’s efforts to revitalize the semiconductor industry in the U.S., with other recent investments including $6.4 billion for Samsung’s semiconductor facility in Taylor.
The importance of these investments goes beyond economic growth, as they are crucial for national security. As the U.S. faces tough competition in the global semiconductor market, securing control over this industry is imperative for maintaining technological leadership and safeguarding critical infrastructure.
The funding for GlobalWafers’ Sherman facility will support the production of silicon wafers, which are integral to semiconductor manufacturing. The company’s deep ties to Texas, through partnerships with educational institutions and involvement in the local semiconductor ecosystem, showcase the potential impact of this investment on the region.
While the exact allocation of funding between the Sherman and St. Peters facilities is still under negotiation, the commitment to bolstering domestic semiconductor production signals a significant advancement in the ongoing “Chip Wars” with China. This funding will not only create jobs and boost economic development but also strengthen America’s position in the global semiconductor market.