Pennsylvania Tech Firms Coherent and Infinera to Receive CHIPS Funding
Federal Funding Boosts Pennsylvania's Semiconductor Industry
In a significant move to enhance the semiconductor sector in Pennsylvania, technology firms Coherent and Infinera have been awarded federal funding under the CHIPS and Science Act. These investments aim to bolster the state's manufacturing capabilities and supply chain resilience.
Harrisburg, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro has revealed that Pennsylvania-based companies Coherent and Infinera will receive up to $172 million in federal support to expand semiconductor production. This funding is a part of the broader initiative to strengthen Pennsylvania's role in the national innovation economy.
Since assuming office two years ago, Governor Shapiro has prioritized the growth of advanced manufacturing and technology in Pennsylvania. His administration's 10-year economic development strategy serves as a roadmap for these efforts, emphasizing the state's strengths and potential for economic growth.
Governor Shapiro stated, "Since day one, my Administration and I have been aggressively working to bring new businesses to Pennsylvania and encourage business growth and expansion in the Commonwealth.” His administration's efforts have positioned Pennsylvania as a competitive player in the global semiconductor market, focusing on cutting-edge technologies such as advanced chip packaging and materials beyond silicon.
Coherent is set to receive up to $79 million to enhance its manufacturing facility in Easton, Northampton County. This expansion will boost the production of 150mm and 200mm silicon carbide (SiC) substrates, essential components in energy and military applications. This project is anticipated to create 320 manufacturing jobs and 40 construction jobs, reinforcing Coherent's status as a leader in materials and networking technologies.
Infinera will benefit from $93 million in federal funding to expand its operations, including the construction of a new facility in Bethlehem, Northampton County. The U.S. Department of Commerce confirmed this funding, which will enable Infinera to increase its domestic manufacturing capacity tenfold. This expansion is expected to generate approximately 500 manufacturing jobs and 1,200 construction positions.
Governor Shapiro's administration has also attracted substantial private investments into Pennsylvania's manufacturing and technology sectors. Notable projects include:
- EMD Electronics: Invested $300 million in Schuylkill County, creating nearly 200 jobs.
- Mitsubishi Electric Power Products: Committed $86 million for a new factory, adding at least 200 jobs.
- Powerex: Investing $14 million in Westmoreland County, creating 25 jobs.
- Spark Therapeutics: Developing a $575 million innovation center in Philadelphia, bringing over 500 jobs.
Over the past two years, the Shapiro Administration has secured over $3 billion in private investments, facilitated the creation of more than 4,700 jobs, and achieved a historically low unemployment rate in the state. Rick Siger, DCED Secretary, noted, "Not only will these historic federal investments create hundreds of well-paying, highly skilled jobs in the Lehigh Valley, but it will strengthen our overall national security." This sentiment underlines the administration's commitment to fostering growth in Pennsylvania's key industries.
Strategic Investments and Economic Growth
The Governor's 2024-25 bipartisan budget aligns with the 10-year strategy, emphasizing sectors such as agriculture, energy, life sciences, manufacturing, and robotics. Key initiatives include:
- PA SITES Program: Secured $500 million for site development, extending the success of the initial program.
- Main Street Matters Program: Created a $20 million fund for downtown revitalization.
- Tourism Branding: Launched a new campaign with $15 million in funding.
- Revitalizing Downtown Pittsburgh: Announced a $62 million plan to stimulate nearly $600 million in investments and create over 3,000 jobs.
Governor Shapiro's Ongoing Impact
Marking two years in office, Governor Shapiro's administration remains dedicated to fostering innovation and economic prosperity. By investing in businesses, communities, and workforce development, Pennsylvania is poised to become a global leader in economic opportunity. Explore more about the administration's achievements on Governor Shapiro’s Accomplishments website.