Laurie E. Locascio Director of NIST and the Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology | Official Website
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a preliminary agreement with Edwards Vacuum to manufacture specialized dry vacuum pumps in the United States. This development is facilitated through a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) signed by the U.S. Department of Commerce and Edwards Vacuum, which could result in up to $18 million in proposed funding under the CHIPS and Science Act.
President Biden's CHIPS and Science Act aims to boost semiconductor manufacturing domestically, strengthen supply chains, and create jobs. The proposed funding would support constructing a state-of-the-art facility in Genesee County, New York, anticipated to create around 600 jobs.
"This strategic and targeted proposed investment...is another example of how we are working to ensure every part of the semiconductor supply chain is being built right here in the United States," stated U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. "With President Biden and Vice President Harris’s CHIPS and Science Act...semiconductor manufacturers would have a domestic supply of this important equipment."
Natalie Quillian, White House Deputy Chief of Staff, added that today's announcement showcases collaboration between the Administration and New York State, aiming to create hundreds of new jobs in Western New York.
The investment intends to secure a reliable domestic supply of dry vacuum pumps essential for semiconductor manufacturing. Laurie E. Locascio from the National Institute of Standards and Technology noted that this move could enhance U.S. production capabilities for these critical components.
Edwards Vacuum plans workforce development efforts with Genesee Community College (GCC) and participates in the NY SMART I-Corridor Consortium Tech Hub, focusing on local economic opportunities.
The company plans to utilize the Department of the Treasury’s Investment Tax Credit for up to 25% of qualified capital expenditures. The Department of Commerce may offer applicants a PMT after satisfactory application review, outlining potential award terms subject to further due diligence.
CHIPS for America has allocated significant funding across multiple states, aiming to create thousands of jobs as part of an effort by President Biden and Vice President Harris to stimulate private sector investment and revitalize communities.
