On October 31, 2024, in a strategic move to reinforce U.S. leadership in semiconductor technology, the Biden Administration announced the selection of Albany’s NanoTech complex in New York as one of three National Semiconductor Technology Centers, securing up to $825 million in federal funding. The facility will focus on advanced semiconductor research, particularly extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography—a vital technology for creating smaller, more efficient microchips. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer highlighted the importance of the facility in strengthening both U.S. economic and national security interests.

The Albany NanoTech complex will serve as the national headquarters for EUV lithography research, an essential process for producing cutting-edge microchips. Schumer emphasized that the facility will enhance U.S. competitiveness, securing technological advances crucial for both the economy and the military. “When you do the high-end research... it ensures our military has the edge,” he stated, underscoring that these advancements are designed to reduce reliance on foreign chip suppliers.

The funding is part of the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act, aimed at boosting high-tech jobs and positioning the U.S. as a leader in semiconductor innovation. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to increase the domestic share of global chip production to 20%, reducing dependency on international suppliers and competing with semiconductor leaders like China.

The Albany NanoTech project complements other major investments in New York’s semiconductor industry. Earlier this year, the administration committed $1.5 billion to GlobalFoundries for expansion near Albany and in Vermont, and $6.1 billion to Micron Technology for advanced memory chip facilities in Syracuse and Boise, Idaho. These developments advance Schumer’s vision to make upstate New York a global center for semiconductor research and manufacturing. The Department of Commerce is expected to announce locations for two additional national technology centers in the coming months.

These investments reflect a long-term strategy to foster semiconductor R&D and workforce development in the United States. Through Albany NanoTech, the NSTC will facilitate collaboration between industry and academic leaders, driving forward breakthroughs in semiconductor technology essential to maintaining U.S. leadership in the field.