NIST Opens Funding Call to Accelerate U.S. Microelectronics Innovation

USA: NIST Launches Funding Call for Microelectronics Innovation

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) announced on September 24, 2025 a broad agency announcement (BAA) that invites proposals aimed at advancing microelectronics technologies across the United States.

Funding Opportunity Overview

The solicitation is part of the CHIPS for America program and will fund research, prototyping, and commercial solutions on a rolling basis through NIST’s CHIPS Research and Development Office.

Key Research Priorities

According to Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology Craig Burkhardt, the initiative seeks to strengthen U.S. leadership in semiconductor technology and speed commercialization. Priority areas include advanced semiconductor research, the application of artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and biotechnology to microelectronics, as well as commercialization pathways and standards development.

Eligibility and Submission Process

U.S. for‑profit companies, nonprofit entities, accredited higher‑education institutions, federally funded research and development centers, and federal agencies are all eligible to apply. Interested parties must first submit a white paper; those selected will be asked to provide a pre‑negotiation package.

Support Resources

NIST plans to host an informational webinar in the coming weeks to guide applicants through the white‑paper preparation and answer pre‑submitted questions. Details on registration and further guidance will be posted on the CHIPS R&D BAA webpage.

Anticipated Impact

The program is designed to expand the domestic semiconductor workforce, foster innovative research, and maintain technology dominance in emerging sectors such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and biomanufacturing.

This report is based on information from NIST, licensed under Public Domain (U.S. Government Work). Source: Official U.S. Government release.