Arizona is officially set to become a central hub for semiconductor innovation with the confirmation that it will host the new National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) Prototyping and the National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program (NAPMP) Advanced Packaging Piloting Facility. The facilities, which are due to start operating in 2028, will be based out of Arizona State University's Research Park in Tempe, bringing state-of-the-art resources for microchip research and development to the region, according to the Senator's Office. Arizona Senator Mark Kelly has been a significant proponent of the project, which firmly places the state on the global map of advanced microchip innovation.
Thanks to the Chips and Science Act, which Senator Kelly played a key role in negotiating, and the subsequent Building Chips in America Act, the center aims to quickly become a forefront facility without having to undergo what is often seen as burdensome federal reviews. This exemption is set to facilitate a smoother operational flow. The facility is unique in its capability to test prototype chips at scale, being only the second of its kind globally with such capabilities outside China. "Creating this world-class prototyping and packaging facility was a priority of mine when negotiating the Chips and Science Act," Senator Mark Kelly said, as stated by the Senator's Office. He continued to assert the strategic importance of developing and testing advanced microchips within the United States, emphasizing the potential for Arizona to lead the way.
Bringing such a significant project to Arizona has been a collaborative effort. A competitive nationwide selection process concluded with various state leaders and members of the Arizona congressional delegation rallying behind the proposal put forth by the Arizona Commerce Authority and ASU. This strategic move is expected to create thousands of high-paying jobs and enhance semiconductor R&D in Arizona. "Arizona continues to prove its role as not just a nationwide leader, but a global leader, in semiconductor research and development," said Senator Ruben Gallego, as reported by the Senator's Office.
Officials also underscore the broader impact on the region's innovation ecosystem, with collaborations from multiple cities and organizations. ASU President Dr. Michael Crow highlighted the CHIPS R&D project's transformative significance, drawing parallels with some of the largest investments in American science history. "The CHIPS R&D project will create a national lab that will be the final piece in a semiconductor ecosystem that serves the nation with research and development, manufacturing and workforce development all right here in Arizona," Crow told the Senator's Office.
