Laurie E. Locascio Director of NIST and the Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology | Official Website
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce is entering negotiations with the Semiconductor Research Corporation Manufacturing Consortium Corporation (SRC) to establish a new Manufacturing USA institute in Durham, North Carolina. The Department plans to provide SRC with $285 million to support this initiative, which will be part of a larger investment totaling $1 billion. The new institute, SMART USA (Semiconductor Manufacturing and Advanced Research with Twins USA), will focus on digital twins technology to enhance domestic semiconductor design and manufacturing processes.
Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, stated: "America’s technological leadership on the world stage depends on its ability to collaborate with the best and brightest around the globe." She emphasized that this initiative aims to safeguard U.S. national security and foster technological innovation.
Digital twins are virtual models that simulate physical objects like chips or machinery. These models allow engineers and researchers to test processes digitally before real-world application, potentially optimizing chip design and improving production efficiency. Digital twin-based research can also use emerging technologies like artificial intelligence for further enhancements.
Arati Prabhakar, Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, highlighted the significance of this development: "Today’s announcement is another step forward under President Biden’s leadership to bring semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States—and invest in the research and development needed to win the future."
SMART USA will serve as a hub for collaboration among companies, startups, researchers, and academia. Laurie E. Locascio, Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology, noted: "Digital Twin technology can unleash a new frontier for innovation in America’s semiconductor R&D ecosystem."
Todd Younkin, Executive Director of SMART USA, expressed gratitude for being recognized as a pivotal force in semiconductor innovation: “We are honored by CHIPS for America's recognition of SMART USA Institute's pivotal role in driving semiconductor innovation."
The SMART USA Institute plans to engage more than 150 partner entities across over 30 states within five years. This effort builds upon previous initiatives aimed at revitalizing American manufacturing through strategic investments.
CHIPS for America is part of President Biden's broader economic strategy to stimulate private sector investment and create jobs domestically. Meanwhile, Manufacturing USA continues its mission of enhancing U.S. leadership in advanced manufacturing through public-private collaborations.
Semiconductor Research Corporation remains a key player in defining industry-driven university research efforts across various sectors.
